Hensley Lamkin Rachel, Inc. (HLR) is an AIA member firm founded in the spring of 1991 primarily to serve as the exclusive architectural firm of a large, national student housing developer. Since then, principals David Hensley, Robert Lamkin, and Bruce Rachel have worked with top development firms across the country to enhance communities through appropriate design for every life stage.

HLR’s principals are licensed in multiple states and have designed student housing, multifamily, senior housing, and commercial projects from the Northwest to the Southeast. We build lasting relationships with our clients and are highly regarded for our creative and contextual design work, our knowledge of building and accessibility codes, and our experience with residential construction methodologies. Believing that architects have a responsibility not only to lead but also to serve the public, HLR applies a collaborative approach to the design-build process to meet the clients’ expectations—and those of the community.

Student Housing
Having started our firm based on an exclusive relationship with an off-campus student housing developer, HLR is known as a design leader in student apartments and residence halls for private and university clients. Our service-oriented approach allows us to gain a valuable understanding of students' and administrators' needs, and an appreciation for the goals of the institutions we serve.

Multifamily
HLR is also known as an industry leader in multifamily design and construction services and has been named one of the nation's Top 100 Architects three times by Multi-Housing News. The firm has also been recognized as a Top 100 firm by Engineering News-Record and Building Design + Construction magazines. We have completed hundreds of projects with an emphasis on high-density multifamily and mixed-use developments, urban townhomes, and luxury and affordable apartments.

Senior Housing
HLR’s dedication to designing creative, functional housing for every life stage naturally extends to the growing senior population. As well as being experts in fair housing design, accessibility, and usability, HLR designs with the sensitivity required to accommodate senior residents and the family members and caregivers who support them.

Commercial Developments
When designing commercial space, HLR seeks to maximize our client's business goals, branding, and marketing plan. From the initial concept through the ribbon cutting, HLR’s collaborative, team approach ensures we deliver timely and cost-efficient services. Our portfolio includes independent businesses such as restaurants and retail space, as well as the fitness facilities and other amenities that are part of master-planned communities and university campuses.