DONALD A. GARDNER, AIA, NCARB – CEO, DONALD A. GARDNER ARCHITECTS, INC.

When Donald A. Gardner moved from New York to South Carolina to attend Clemson University in 1963, he brought with him an inherited eye for artistic detail and a passion for architectural design. After graduating from Clemson with a Bachelor of Architecture degree and serving two years in the Army Corps of Engineers, Don returned to Upstate South Carolina to pursue his career. After becoming a registered architect, Don worked with several architectural firms throughout the next fourteen years, gaining experience in commercial, institutional, industrial, and residential design.

Recognizing his talents and interests lay in residential design, Don saw a need for better designed, more livable homes that would meet families’ changing needs and busier lifestyles. With this dream his primary focus, Don founded Donald A. Gardner Architects, Inc. in 1978. By 1984, Don was able to commit his attention to the firm on a full-time basis. Through his experience and insight, Don has grown his architectural firm into several successful companies that have provided career opportunities for many in the Greenville community. Under his leadership, his firm has brought national recognition to South Carolina as well as local suppliers, individuals, and businesses through articles in the firm’s national publications as well as other consumer publications.