The Northwest Arkansas Design Excellence Program was established by the Walton Family Foundation in 2015 with the purpose of promoting growth, preserving natural resources, and achieving a high level of design and development in public spaces.

• 22 architectural firms have joined or remain in the program, consisting of nearly 50 firms from 14 states.
• 15 projects are now under the wing of the design program, located in the region's five largest downtowns, art and educational facilities, parks and more.
• The WFF partnered with Gehl in 2020 to dig deeper into the program's impact. The report found the program aids in balancing authenticity and design excellence, creating community connection, expanding access to the arts and reviving local economies. -Walton Family Foundation
• View the full list of firms welcomed into the program.