About

HARPER PARTNERS

Improving the Quality of Life Through Architecture and Design

Harper Partners architecture is not only about design. Our trademark, improving the quality of life through architecture and design registered trademark, states our goal for every project. Harper Partners is a legacy firm founded by David Harper FAIA LEED AP. For three decades, the firm demonstrated a commitment to architecture that enhances the quality of life of those who live, work and play in the buildings created. With every building we seek to fulfill the vision of building a better world – one project at a time. And because every project impacts it surroundings in significant ways, we have always worked with great sensitivity towards preserving the environment and creating a sustainable future. The style and form of buildings are as diverse as the campus and communities where each is located. Our goal has always been to create project design solutions which fit into their locations and make lasting contributions to the world.

David M. Harper

FAIA, LEED AP
Founder Harper Partners, Inc.
  • 40 years of experience with top-level responsibility for financial and operational performance of companies and divisions.
  • Executive and board level roles in various companies providing architectural and building engineering design, civil engineering, building construction, building materials and construction technologies.
  • Strong experience includes Design/Build, P-3 alternative delivery, business development, contracts, accounting, mergers, and acquisitions.
  • World-wide experience as Global Director in building teams, winning, and delivering work.
  • Skilled in negotiations and mediating sensitive political, business, and community concerns
  • Internationally recognized, published, and awarded Design Architect

CEO and Executive level roles in organizational development, team building, and setting strategy for success in A/E/C firms, construction, and development. Built Harper Partners into 100+ person firm working in multiple markets across much of the U.S.  Lead HKS Architects into new markets and served as a Senior shareholder/ Partner and global market sector Director for the firm. Lead the entire North American Buildings & Places practice for a top 10 largest U.S firm with 1.5 Billion in revenue.

Recently received the 2020-2021 AIA Miami Sustainable Architect of the year award. Recognized as an important force in bringing community awareness to sustainable design by the personal development of award winning high-end residential projects.

Served on the local City Commission before founding the Harper architectural firms and later appointed as Chairman of the South Florida Building Code Committee in the rebuilding after Hurricane Andrew. Received Commendation from the Governor and the Mayor for serving as a “bridge-builder” in bringing the community together, especially resolving disputes between the local contractors, building inspectors, engineers, and architects.

  • Chairman of the State of Florida Advisory Committee to the Office of Capital Programs
  • Visiting Professor, Florida International University (Library lobby and central space name recognition -David M. Harper Family Atrium)
  • The nation’s youngest architect elevated into Fellowship by the American institute of Architects.
  • Profile included among 100 world architects within Wikipedia listing of “21st Century Notable Architects”
  • Received over a dozen design awards from the American Institute of Architects and dozens more from industry and trade publications
Education, Professional Licenses, and Roles
  • Bachelor of Architecture – University of Miami
  • Fellowship: Museum of Modern Art
  • Institute for Architecture and Urban Studies – New York (protégé to Dr. Peter Eisenman FAIA)
  • Years of Experience: 40 years
  • Licensed Architect: Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Carolina, Michigan, New York, Mississippi.
    Fellow, American Institute of Architect
  • Member: The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
    Trustee Historical Museum of Southern Florida
  • Board of Directors: Miracle League of North Fulton County, Georgia
    President’s Council Florida International University/ Dean’s Advisory Board
    LEED Accredited Professional
Quotes & Features
  • Architecture
  • Architectural Record
  • Progressive Architecture
  • Florida Architect
  • Florida Design
  • Florida Trend
  • Forbes
  • Fortune
  • Inc Magazine
  • Miami Herald
  • St Petersburg Times (now Tampa Bay Times)
  • San Diego Union Tribune
  • Miami Home and Design
  • South Florida Business Journal
  • Ocean Drive Magazine
  • Interview with CNN
  • Interview PBS
  • Interview WSVN Channel 7 Miami
Relevant accomplishments

Shaping Communities and Sustainable Design

Harper Partners Founder David Harper: A Legacy of Architectural Excellence

With over four decades of architectural expertise, David M. Harper, FAIA, LEED AP, stands as a beacon of excellence in the field. As the founder of Harper Partners, Inc., he has steered the company to remarkable heights, overseeing its growth into a 100+ person firm operating across diverse markets in the United States. His extensive career encompasses executive roles in a range of architectural and engineering companies, a testament to his prowess in architectural design, engineering, and construction. David's dedication to sustainable design was recently recognized when he was awarded the AIA Miami Sustainable Architect of the Year, underscoring his commitment to shaping communities through innovative and eco-conscious architecture.

David Harper: A Bridge-Builder and Internationally Renowned Architect

Beyond his architectural achievements, David Harper has played a pivotal role in fostering unity and building communities. Prior to founding his architectural firms, he served on the local City Commission and was later appointed as the Chairman of the South Florida Building Code Committee during the rebuilding efforts following Hurricane Andrew. His commendation by the Governor and the Mayor as a "bridge-builder" highlights his ability to bring together local contractors, building inspectors, engineers, and architects for the common good. Moreover, his international recognition as a Design Architect and his trailblazing work have earned him a place among the world's notable architects, further solidifying his legacy in the architectural world.

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