Every community has places that become part of its story—a church where families gather, a school that shapes future generations, a city building where important decisions are made, or a home where lifelong memories begin. For 30 years, Sowell Ferris Architects has had the privilege of designing many of those spaces in Conway and throughout Central Arkansas, creating places that strengthen the communities we call home.

Founded in 1995 by Rik Sowell, the firm has spent three decades building lasting relationships through thoughtful design and personalized service. Over the years, that work has included projects such as the Conway Regional Airport, Conway Christian School, Arnold Innovation Center, and the Conway Tennis Center, along with churches, healthcare facilities, nonprofit organizations, municipal buildings, businesses, and custom homes across the region. While architecture and technology have changed considerably over the years, the firm’s approach has remained much the same: listen carefully, work closely with clients, and design spaces that truly work for the people who use them.

This year also marks 10 years since owners Cody and Emily Ferris joined Sowell Ferris Architects. Over the past decade, they have helped lead the firm into its next chapter—building on its established foundation while introducing new technology, expanding services, and finding new ways to make the design process better for clients.

“Thirty years is something we’re incredibly proud to celebrate, but we also feel like we’re just getting started,” Emily says. “We have a great team, great clients, and a lot of excitement about what we’re building together and where the firm is headed next.”

As husband-and-wife owners, Cody and Emily bring different strengths to the business but share the same vision. Today, Sowell Ferris is a growing team of seven, most of whom call Conway home. The close-knit team brings together architecture and interior design expertise, creativity, and a shared commitment to doing great work.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to have the team we do,” Emily says. “They care about the quality of our work, they care about our clients, and they genuinely care about one another. That makes a difference in every project we take on.”

“Architecture is ultimately about people,” Cody says. “The drawings are important, but the relationships we build along the way are what make a project successful. When clients return to us years later or recommend us to others, that’s the greatest compliment we can receive.”

The way clients experience the design process has also changed dramatically. Through Building Information Modeling (BIM), immersive 3D visualization, and in-house interior design, clients can see and understand their projects long before construction begins. Being able to walk through a space virtually, explore materials, and see design ideas come to life helps clients feel confident in the decisions they’re making.

For the Sowell Ferris team, there is something especially meaningful about designing in Conway. Many of the places they help create become part of the same community where they live, work, raise their families, and spend their everyday lives.

“We’re not just invested in the success of our projects—we’re invested in the future of our community because this is our home, too,” Emily says. “That responsibility is something we never take for granted.”

As Sowell Ferris Architects celebrates 30 years in business, the team is grateful for the trust of its clients, consultants, contractors, and community partners. The anniversary is more than a celebration of the past—it’s an opportunity to look ahead with excitement as the firm continues designing spaces that strengthen communities, build lasting relationships, and serve Arkansas for generations to come.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored content, paid for by Sowell Ferris Architects. For more information, visit sowellarchitects.com.