About Architectural Traditions
Architectural Traditions, initially named Southwest Door Co, was founded nearly a quarter of a century ago by Tucson-based, "Master Builder" Mark Butler. At that time, Mark specialized in building custom homes that reflected the Southwest's architectural building and design traditions. To create these homes and achieve an authentic design, Mark fabricated many of his own building materials, such as mud adobe block, latillas and hand-hewn beam ceilings, and eventually doors, windows, and hardware.
As Mark's homes gained local and national renown, there was great interest in the materials he used, specifically for the doors, windows, and hardware. Builders and architects from across the country began to inquire where they could purchase these materials. This led to the formation of Southwest Door Company.
To more accurately reflect the widening scope of Mark's mission, Southwest Door became Architectural Traditions, a company still rooted in and proud of its Southwestern heritage, but dedicated to providing product that is true to other regional architectural styles across the country
Diamond Ventures, an Arizona-based real estate development and investment company, was Mark's initial business partner. Upon Mark's retirement in 2003, Diamond Ventures assumed full control of Architectural Traditions and continues to lend its financial and visionary support.
Diamond Ventures' mission is to participate in business ventures that create value for its strategic partners and customers. This shared business management philosophy allows Architectural Traditions to maintain its innovative and leadership role in the fenestration industry. For more information about Diamond Ventures, please visit their website.
Today, Architectural Traditions is one of the largest custom millwork and hardware manufacturers in the country. It is the only company of its kind that allows the builder, architect, designer and/or homeowner complete design control, ensuring that the windows, doors and hardware are built with a consistent look and quality that only a single-source supplier can offer.