Stambaugh Ness & Zweig Group Advise McFarlane Architects in Milestone Deal with DLR Group
SN and Zweig Group leverage deep AEC market intelligence to unite a premier San Diego life sciences firm with a national employee-owned design leader.
Stambaugh Ness (SN), a premier AEC-focused strategic advisory firm, in partnership with Zweig Group, the premier authority in AEC management consulting, is pleased to announce their role advising San Diego-based McFarlane Architects in its transaction with global integrated design firm DLR Group.
Recognized for its architecture, planning, and interior design across science, technology, and advanced manufacturing, McFarlane Architects brings a deep portfolio of laboratory spaces. The acquisition strengthens DLR Group’s science and technology practice and expands its footprint in San Diego, adding active clients across key life science hubs, including Boston and San Francisco.
Operating as DLR Group | McFarlane Architects, the team gains access to DLR Group’s 38 nationwide offices and joins DLR’s 100% employee-owned (ESOP) platform.
Comprehensive M&A Advisory Services Delivered
As financial and strategic advisors to McFarlane Architects, the combined M&A Advisory team provided comprehensive seller representation throughout the transaction lifecycle, delivering specialized guidance in:
- Market Process & Strategic Positioning
- Deal Structuring & Negotiation
- Due Diligence & Closing Support
- Tax Advisory
Leadership Perspectives
“McFarlane Architects and DLR Group represent an exceptional strategic fit, pairing specialized design expertise with a shared commitment to employee ownership. We are proud to have supported Neal McFarlane through this process alongside Zweig Group, delivering an outcome that secures their firm’s legacy.” — Jeff Adams, CM&AA, Director of Mergers & Acquisitions, Stambaugh Ness.
“Our combined advisory efforts with Stambaugh Ness allow us to deliver unmatched strategic value to AEC firm owners. Facilitating McFarlane Architects’ transition into DLR Group’s employee-owned platform aligns perfectly with our mission to elevate the industry and ensure sustainable firm growth.” — Will Swearingen, Principal and Sr. Director, Mergers & Acquisitions, Zweig Group.
“I was looking for a partner with a long-term view, a California presence, and a commitment to growing a leading science and technology practice—DLR Group is that firm. Their 100% employee-ownership model gives our team a real stake in what we design next, making it the right way to carry our legacy forward.” — Neal McFarlane, Founder, McFarlane Architects
About Stambaugh Ness
Stambaugh Ness is a multi-discipline, professional services firm serving clients nationally with a singular focus on architecture, engineering, construction, and related industries. With Stambaugh Ness, clients have access to a wide array of services, including advisory, technology, accounting, and tax, that enable them to meet compliance requirements, avoid risk, thrive, and grow.
About Zweig Group
Zweig Group, a four-time Inc. 500/5000 honoree, is the premier authority in AEC management consulting, the go-to source for industry research, and the leading provider of customized learning and training. Zweig Group specializes in four core consulting areas: Talent, Performance, Growth, and Transition, including innovative solutions in mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning, financial management, ownership transition, executive search, business development, valuation, and more. With a mission to Elevate the Industry®, Zweig Group exists to help AEC firms succeed in a competitive marketplace.