Press Release: Onyx Creative, Inc. and CDA Architects Complete Merger
October 2025, Cleveland, Ohio
Onyx Creative, Inc. is happy to announce a merger with Houston-based CDA Architects. Emphasizing innovation by collaboration, the combined team is excited to continue their long-established relationships and project partnerships. CDA brings talented design professionals and architects to Onyx Creative along with a strong regional presence in Texas.
The combined project portfolio and client list for CDA and Onyx Creative includes many industry leaders in the retail, grocery, and foodservice sectors, along with industrial and medical clients. The firm will maintain these client-focused relationships and is positioned for current and future growth opportunities.
Mike Crislip, President of Onyx Creative - “I have known and worked with Ray Duerer for more than 25 years, starting with OfficeMax projects in Texas in the late 90s when Charles Chambliss, the founder of CDA, was designing shopping centers and we were coordinating OfficeMax stores into those centers. During the years since, we have leaned on them for assistance with projects and teamed up to help them with their projects. This is a merger which benefits our staff and clients across the US, especially in Texas.”
“I first worked with Mike nearly 25 years ago. Since then, our two firms have worked for each other respectively, and alongside each other as well. With this merger of friendly competitors and long-time friends, I think it reinforces our commitment and service to our current clients and becomes a catalyst for future growth and services to those clients and beyond. CDA just celebrated 30 years as a firm, and now I think we are well poised for the next 30.” said Ray Duerer, President of CDA Architects.
“Merging forces will enrich the decades-old, exceptional services provided by CDA Architects. With projects all over the south, from Florida, along the gulf coast to New Mexico, CDA Architects will expand Onyx Creative’s range and will continue to deliver its current clients with its renowned service. The collaboration between the two companies will reward clients with great advantages.” - Tamim El Haje, Partner and Executive VP with CDA Architects.
“CDA Architects is recognized throughout the retail design industry in Texas and the surrounding states for our exceptional work, outstanding client service, and attention to detail. Joining the Onyx Creative team will allow us to expand our reach into new markets and position us to successfully undertake larger and more complex projects.” said Stuart Allison, Partner with CDA Architects.
From left to right: Mike Crislip, Ray Duerer
About Onyx Creative
Onyx Creative is an award-winning professional services firm specializing in retail and commercial environments. With a staff of 180+ architects, engineers and interior designers, they provide a full spectrum of design, production, development, and construction administration services. Office locations include Cleveland, OH; Tucson, AZ; Los Angeles, CA; Atlanta, GA; Baltimore, MD; Portland, ME; and now Houston, TX.