Our history
Reflecting on a 50 year legacy of building lasting relationships, delivering impactful solutions, and meeting the unique needs of each and every project.
Late 1960s to early 1970s
Bill Hendrick began his career practicing architecture in Atlanta, working with some of the most storied and inventive developers in the city.
Always curious and creative, Bill developed a fascination for designing interior spaces, seeing great possibility to create human-centered experiences that inspire and enhance business. Bill got his chance to dive deep into interior design when he was approached to establish the in-house firm for developer Jim Cushman, the visionary behind Colony Square and pioneer in developing mixed-use properties. With Cushman, Bill started Design Atlanta. His success there and his growing reputation attracted considerable client interest within Atlanta and beyond.
1974 to 1977
With a desire to serve more clients and further push his vision, Bill split from Design Atlanta and founded Hendrick Associates in 1974.
Joining him were three other designers and an administrative assistant. The spirit and determination of this small team led them to success both creatively and financially, and they built a strong foundation of clients—some of which are still active with Hendrick today. In 1976, Hendrick moved to Piedmont Center as a founding tenant.
1978 to 2000
In 1978, in response to a growing obsession with furniture design, Bill relocated to Michigan to develop a partnership with a progressive manufacturing company.
While Bill remained the owner of Hendrick, he entrusted the day-to-day operations to designer Marsha Cook, who was only 29 years old. As an industry novice, Marsha’s limited experience was transcended by her enthusiasm, work ethic and passion for design. She took the reins and ran the creative side of the business with fervor, instituting client relationships and design principles that hold today.
In 1980, Jim Ferguson joined Hendrick to lead business development and operations. Jim made his mark by initiating processes and systems that increased efficiencies and productivity while retaining the focus on creative solutions for clients.
Jim and Marsha assumed full ownership in 1983, and Hendrick quadrupled in size under their leadership. The core approach to client relations was developed, establishing the template for exceptionally direct communications, deeper coordination into accounting, and an expectation of superior creative output. Two key hires during this phase of growth and evolution were Chris Heard and Jennifer Treter.
2001 to present
Displaying leadership qualities, a passion for their craft, and a client focus that has been the common thread of Hendrick principals, Jennifer Treter and Chris Heard both became partners in 2001.
While both had left Hendrick during their tenure to explore other opportunities, they also both returned home to Hendrick to lead the company into the next phase of growth. Marsha retired in 2004, followed by Jim in 2008. Since then, Chris and Jennifer have led Hendrick, continuing the charge of developing meaningful relationships and designing solutions that inspire.
