This year marks the 20th anniversary of DHM Design’s Durango office, a milestone that highlights two decades of impactful work connecting people to the natural landscapes of the Southwest. Founded in 2004 by Principals Ann and Walker Christensen, the Durango studio has become a cornerstone in the firm’s mission to balance human presence with nature while honoring the enduring spirit of the land. DHM Design Corporation celebrates its 50th anniversary as a corporation in 2025, with Durango as one of multiple locations.
From its beginnings, the Durango office has played a pivotal role in projects that have shaped communities and preserved the natural environment. Early projects included regional educational campuses and community master plans. Within the Durango vicinity, DHM continues to work on public and private park networks, trails, ranches, and vibrant businesses, all designed to foster a meaningful connection to the surrounding landscape. They continue to serve the Durango Three Springs and Twin Buttes communities into future phases of successful growth. Over the past two decades, DHM Design’s Durango office has expanded its reach, working on projects at iconic locations such as the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Dallas TX, and Boise ID. The studio’s portfolio includes revitalizing historic western downtowns, tribal community master planning, and brownfield rehabilitation. The Firefly community plan in Salt Lake City demonstrates the value of outdoor lifestyle and features landscape art as part of progressive community planning.
DHM Durango has applied unique expertise in hot springs design to create outdoor-oriented spa resorts that provide a full range of wellness experiences. The Durango Hot Springs project expanded the Historic Trimble Hot Springs Pool to include over 40 unique water features offering mineral pools, cool plunges, lap lanes, and private Japanese-inspired soaking tubs within a setting of elaborate flower gardens. DHM expands on the qualities of each hot springs location to create a distinct, rejuvenating experience.
As the Durango office celebrates this significant milestone, it continues to look forward, driven by the same principles that have guided it for the past 20 years —creating spaces that reflect the unique character of the land and enhancing the communities it serves.
Visit www.dhmdesign.com to learn more about DHM Design’s enduring legacy and innovative work.
