“Having been in business for 64 years, we’ve had our share of ups and downs, but we’ve just kept moving forward.” – Donna Edmondson, EFG Design & Architecture Principal.
Since 1956, EFG Design & Architecture has helped clients to reformulate the expectations for their environment. Originally established as Larry Edmondson & Associates, Inc., the firm re-branded itself with continued emphasis on building upon its distinguished reputation as a premier architectural design firm specializing in architectural and design services for projects within the Native American, public and private sector, including planning and mixed-use developments.
Working alongside Principal Donna Edmondson, Cray Bauxmont-Flynn joined the firm in 2019 as Chief Operating Officer and Principal in Charge of Architecture and Design where he synthesizes his 35 years of leadership and experience into each unique project. Cray has generated a diverse body of work, ranging from small boutique hospitality projects to large scale higher education projects – and everything in between. Both Donna and Cray are proud members of the Cherokee Nation.
“Ms. Edmondson has offered her company’s services to design buildings that will deliver valuable services to tribal citizens throughout our reservation boundaries, including the Cherokee Nation headquarters, the W.W. Keeler Tribal Complex in Tahlequah, and One Fire Victim Services building that will serve as a safe harbor for those seeking shelter from domestic violence”, said Chuck Hoskin, Jr., Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “Through our long-standing partnership, we have created thousands of jobs, designed beautiful buildings and positively impacted the lives of Cherokees for the next seven generations.”
Perhaps the passing of founder Larry Edmonson in May 2017, historical economic fluctuations and an ever-changing industry helped prepare EFG for its latest obstacle – COVID-19. As with many businesses, the pandemic caused all projects to stop, and forced the firm to furlough its entire staff. However, by leveraging various resources and funding programs, EFG turned to the same strategy it’s been using since 1956 – just keep moving forward. Through a true display of resiliency, Edmonson and Bauxmont-Flynn have continued drafting proposals during the downtime, and have been working to become 8(a) certified with help from REI Native American Business Center. Projects are slowly coming back, and the firm will soon be thriving once again. Through these challenges, the team has managed to continue honoring founder Larry Edmondson’s legacy.
“EFG’s ability to persevere through the challenges presented by the recent pandemic demonstrate the firm’s strong and respected place within Oklahoma’s design and architecture industry,” said Lesa Steele, REI Native American Business Center Coordinator.
In its 64 years, EFG has certainly faced its share of obstacles. Despite the unexpected challenges the firm has faced, it continues its goal of meeting and exceeding expectations, fulfilling its desire to create an innovative design which preserves the environmental, economic, and social values that are important to the firm’s clients.