Crafting Community and Legacy: The Story Behind a Hallmark Project

In Culture, News by Gordon Highlander

In commercial construction, success is typically measured by timelines, budgets, and square footage. But for Gordon Highlander, the true measure of success lies in projects built on trust, culture, and shared values. What began as a successful project evolved into a meaningful partnership. Read and watch the interview to discover more.

A Walk-Through That Became a Turning Point

This was the case during a recent interior finish-out project in Dallas, where collaboration with Furniture Marketing Group led to more than a well-executed space; it ignited a lasting relationship rooted in mutual respect and a shared commitment to excellence.

The project was complete. The end user was satisfied. Yet, rather than simply moving on, something unique was about to unfold: a walk-through with FMG President Greg Almond.

“It was an opportunity for us to both walk the space and see our work. As CEOs and founders, we get pulled in a lot of directions. But one of the things I love to do, when I get the chance, is walk our jobs and experience the energy of a finished space.”Greg Gordon, Founder and CEO of Gordon Highlander.

Both companies contributed to the project, and that meeting swiftly transitioned beyond walls and finishes, becoming a conversation about values, teams, family, and legacy.

It was apparent this wasn’t a typical contractor-furniture vendor partnership. Both organizations are profoundly client-centric, revolving around individuals who take pride in their work and prioritize relationships over mere transactions.

The Clean Job Site That Said It All

Throughout the build, Almond would visit the job site periodically, often unannounced. Each time, what he observed was something he did not take lightly. He was intrigued by why this was the cleanest job site he had seen in a while. So, he asked the project manager.

“What was interesting was that the PM didn’t know Greg and I knew each other. In his eyes, this was just another project. And this is how they conduct themselves. That told me everything.” – Greg Almond, CEO of Furniture Marketing Group

For us, job site cleanliness is more than a checklist item; it represents professionalism, pride, and care. Our standard remains consistent, whether it’s a 2,000-square-foot tenant improvement or a full-floor office.

Flexibility That Fosters Trust

Commercial construction is seldom linear. Designs evolve, site conditions change, and decisions must be made in real-time. This project was no exception. Midway through the job, the team needed to relocate a pergola, which necessitated adjustments to electrical plans, data lines, concrete finishing, and layout coordination.

What could’ve resulted in tension was instead met with collaboration. No resistance. No frustration. Just a firm commitment to doing what was best for the space. Such a degree of construction flexibility is integral to how Gordon Highlander operates. It’s not about rigidly adhering to the initial plan. It’s about ensuring clients get it right before move-in, not after.

A Partnership That Goes Beyond the Project

Another common trait between Gordon Highlander and Furniture Marketing Group is their focus on legacy.

FMG, a family-owned business, is led by Greg Almond, who carries on the work his father began. Similarly, Gordon Highlander was founded with a long-term vision, prioritizing investment in talent, building a strong culture, and fostering loyalty.

It’s no coincidence that both companies have employees with long tenures. It’s a reflection of environments where people feel a sense of ownership over the work and a purpose in the mission. In both cases, the collaboration surpassed the mere scope of work. It was about two companies supporting each other in succeeding because that’s what happens when values align.

When a Space Feels Like More

After the Dallas project, both companies found themselves expanding into San Antonio. When FMG saw Gordon Highlander’s name on the bidder list, they didn’t hesitate.

At the same time, Gordon Highlander was building out its own office space and sought FMG’s assistance. From furniture to glass systems, FMG delivered solutions on a tight schedule, reinforcing the value of trusted partners sharing the trenches.

“There’s something about this place,” Our CEO Greg Gordon said. “You walk in and feel it. It’s the people, the culture, the care. That kind of energy gets imprinted in a space when the right teams are involved.”

But what visitors responded to wasn’t just the design; it was the energy. At Gordon Highlander, each commercial interior finish-out is an opportunity to do more than build. It’s a chance to leave a lasting mark of trust, quality, and intent.

Conclusion

This project serves as a reminder that the finest work occurs when values align. Clean job sites, seamless adaptations, honest communication, and shared leadership all led to a result that was more than just a beautiful space. It became a reflection of everything Gordon Highlander stands for.

Because when two teams are dedicated to serving others, investing in people, and building with care, something greater takes shape. Not just a project. A partnership. A legacy.

About Gordon Highlander

Gordon Highlander, headquartered in Texas, is a premier commercial general contractor specializing in design-build and partially- and fully-engineered construction solutions. With decades of legacy, we have delivered millions of square feet across diverse commercial and industrial sectors. Our expertise extends to major Texan markets, including Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, Houston, and Atlanta, Georgia.