About Us

GOVA

verb [go-vah]: To Elevate

“How do we elevate everyday life through meaningful experiences, inspiration, and true collaboration?

Architecture has the ability to influence how we feel, how we work, how we heal, and how we connect with others. Our goal has never been to simply design buildings, but to help create environments that genuinely support the people who use them. Every project begins with listening and collaboration. By understanding our clients’ vision, challenges, and aspirations, we can shape spaces that are not only beautiful, but meaningful and practical.

We believe the best architecture is a partnership. When owners, designers, and builders work together openly and thoughtfully, the result is a place that reflects shared ideas rather than a single perspective. Responsible design considers long-term value, efficiency, and the experience of the people inside the space — today and years into the future.

Through Gova Architecture, we strive to inspire our clients, elevate communities, and improve lives through careful, intentional design. Our work is guided by creativity, collaboration, and stewardship, with the hope that each project leaves a positive and lasting impact.”

-David Cowan, Founder and Principal

David Cowan
Founder and Principal Architect

Education and Experience:

David Cowan began his architectural career at The Ohio State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, including participation in an Italian Study Abroad design program and competition. He is a licensed architect in Arizona and Utah, holds NCARB certification, and is a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) focused on sustainable design.

With over two decades of experience, his work spans site planning, retail, mixed-use, education, healthcare, and residential architecture, delivering thoughtful, high-performance design solutions across a wide range of project types.

Our

Process

INTRO

Each project begins with listening and gathering essential client and site information prior to an on-site meeting. This preparation ensures that our time together is focused, efficient, and productive.

DESIGN

The collected information is used to develop a tailored design solution aligned with the project goals. We present this design to the client for review and approval before moving forward to the next phase.

DRAWINGS

Following design approval, we collaborate with the engineering team to produce detailed construction drawings.  These documents establish the scope, quality, and requirements for the contractor.

PERMITTING       

With client approval, we submit the project to the appropriate local jurisdiction and coordinate the permitting process to secure all necessary approvals for construction.

CONSTRUCTION

Once permits are issued, we conduct a meeting with the client and contractor to initiate construction and ensure the project proceeds smoothly and according to plan.

Our

SERVICES

DESIGN

  • Site Planning

  • Programming   

  • Building Planning   

  • Visualization 

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

We provide comprehensive documents utilizing the latest in building information modeling (BIM) software in order to produce well-coordinated, detailed, thorough drawings, and specifications.  This reduces conflicts with project team members along the way.

CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION

  • Field Progress Reporting 

  • RFI Coordination and Response

  • Shop Drawing Review 

  • Change Order Processing   

  • Substantial Completion Services