Talk Design

The Daniel Residence is a modern re-interpretation of the shotgun typology responding to both the owner’s Louisiana roots and the long narrow nature of her property. Visitors enter past the formal sitting room into a central vestibule which flows in an enfilade procession between kitchen / dining and the sitting. In section, 11’ and 13’ ceilings and extensive glazed openings offset the compact planimetric constraints of the site. Beyond the public spaces, a u-shaped stepped retaining system receives the intertwined forms of the principal suite and pool with the principal bedroom occupying a special place of prospect, looking out to the waterline. Back at the vestibule, a floating steel stair takes visitors to the second floor living space where the procession flows to an oversized screened porch overlooking Austin’s downtown skyline.

April has over 16 years of professional experience in architecture and design specializing in sustainable projects.  She has designed award winning residential, commercial and institutional projects ranging in scale from large campus projects to smaller single building and residential projects.  April’s research and experience in sustainable design has been published internationally. Previous commercial and institutional clients have included the University of New Mexico, Institute of American Indian Arts and Girls Inc. 

In a desire to focus solely on sustainable projects, April launched Clark | Richardson Architects with her partner Ed Richardson, in 2009.  Many firms have a design sensibility that is either traditional or modern or somewhere in between. We have done it all. C|R approaches each project individually, looking at the needs and desires of the client, individual aspects of the site and the climate of the area and creates a design that brings it all together arriving at the most elegant solution possible.  C|R designs sustainable renovation, residential and commercial projects with the goal of creating holistic experiences through form, sustainability and attention to detail.

Ed Richardson is originally from New Orleans and has practiced architecture in Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Mexico and Texas. He specializes in custom residential and commercial architecture.  

He studied architecture on at both Yale University, where he was awarded the Blanning Prize, the Parsons Memorial Medal and a merit scholarship, and the University of Virginia. Ed has instructed both undergraduate and advanced studio courses at the University of Texas and University of New Mexico. 

Ed was the editor of the 39th edition of Perspecta, the Yale Architecture Journal, titled Re_Urbanism (MIT, 2007) which investigates the transformation of capital cities in the era of globalization. He has also contributed articles to MONU, Texas Architect and MasContext. He was a participant / winning entrant in AIA DesCours 2010 in New Orleans and was a panelist in the inaugural 2011 SXSW Eco conference on the topic of biomimetics.

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Perched along a verdant slope overlooking downtown Austin, the City Park Residence is delicately interwoven into the rugged beauty of its surroundings. Rolling hills frame the urban skyline, accentuated by the iconic Pennybacker Bridge. The home is suspended in dynamic tension between this extravagant panorama and the intimacy of a private court as grounded moments of pause and embrace counterbalance the constant allure of the spectacular.

The residence first reveals itself as a modest one-story structure and elegantly repairs the landscape scar left by the demolition of its predecessor, years prior. A sloping garden transforms the remnant hillside cut and descends to a covered, breezy terrace, with pool, lawn, and view beyond. Profiled wood and native stone complement the warmth of mahogany window walls at the exterior. Inside, dexterous wood and steel form functional millwork and sculptural details that minimize quotidian visual noise to refocus on the dramatic natural surroundings.

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The Bryker Woods Residence is home to the owners of Hunt Architecture. In 2022, after living on their Bryker Woods lot for four years, the couple relocated their existing 1941 bungalow (to another site) and built a new home to complement the 400 SF rear studio they built two years prior.

Respecting the scale of the historic neighbourhood while designing a house that was current, efficient, and innovative was a top priority. The single-story structure, clad in brick and vertical cedar siding, utilizes a mix of gable and flat roofs. The result is a home that sits comfortably in the neighbourhood while also feeling notably different.

At only 2,040 SF, this modestly sized house provides a unique volume of space with ample natural light, proving that smaller spaces can have a big impact. A central spine, aligned with a large skylight above serves as the main path of travel through the house and separates the public from the private functions of the house.

Hunt Architecture used their small lot to its fullest potential, providing both a comfortable home for their young family and an office for their growing business, both within steps of each other.

Brittany earned her Master of Architecture and Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from The University of Texas in Austin. Prior to joining Hunt Architecture, Brittany worked on a range of cultural and institutional projects at Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects | Partners in New York City. Brittany has previously taught at the University of Texas School of Architecture in Austin.

Nick earned his Master of Architecture from Yale University and Bachelor of Architecture from Syracuse University. Prior to cofounding Hunt Architecture, he was an Architect at Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects | Partners, where he worked on a range of institutional and residential projects. Nicholas is a Registered Architect in States of New York and Texas.

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From the beginning, the clients adored the Bridle Path property. The expansive lot featured a charming yet notably outdated split-level residence, surrounded by lush tree coverage and a bonus accessory dwelling unit (ADU) at the rear. Instead of demolishing the house outright, the project aimed to maintain the essence of the 1950s split-level while integrating modern elements and creating versatile spaces for everyday living. Through relatively simple, yet strategic moves, a home can undergo a significant transformation with relatively little intervention. A straightforward realignment of wall heights and the fascia created a striking visual reference line from the exterior. By embracing multifunctional areas, the design sought to maximize usage while minimizing unnecessary square footage. Rather than expanding the existing footprint, the architect repurposed the carport to accommodate additional space blending the new and old seamlessly with the goal of respecting the property's and preserving its character in the neighbourhood.

Maggie has loved the art and science of architecture since she was young. Raised by an engineer and an artist she was exposed to the field through her uncle who, in the 1950s, trained under Frank Lloyd Wright’s protégé. Wylie went on to earn a Bachelors in Architecture from the University of Arizona in 2009 and subsequently moved to Austin. After almost six years in design-build and construction project management, Maggie launched Point B with a mission to deliver an enjoyable, streamlined client experience by pursuing an effective synergy between design and construction. She seeks design solutions that are founded on candid conversations about the realities of budget, the construction process and client requirements. With the help of a great team of employees and incredible clients, Wylie has conceptualized and grown Point B into a successful and expanding practice that is woven into the fabric of Austin’s rapidly growing built environment.

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Discover architectural diversity, community engagement, and sustainable innovation at the AIA Austin Homes Tour with Ingrid Spencer.

1. The Austin Homes Tour offers a unique opportunity for the public to explore custom-designed homes and engage with architects, contractors, and designers. It's a chance to see beautifully executed designs and learn about the thought processes behind them.

2. The tour fosters a culture of collaboration among architects and designers, who are willing to share their knowledge and expertise with each other and with tour attendees. It's a collegial environment that encourages learning and problem-solving.

3. The webinars associated with the tour provide valuable insights into the design philosophies of the architects and interior designers involved. These webinars are a great way for both the public and design professionals to gain a deeper understanding of the featured homes and the people behind them.

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Jane Ledger is a Perth-based interior designer who is self-proclaimed “obsessed” with helping people create their dream home.

After nearly 20 years in the corporate sector - as a lawyer, project manager and HR executive - Jane decided to pursue her creative passion. This means she brings a unique and very handy skill set to the design and construction process!

Jane specialises in designing custom interiors for private residential clients including renovations, new builds and interiors furnishings. She’s recently expanded into turn-key services for luxury apartments.

She also hosts the popular Inside Design podcast and has built a community of more than 25 thousand on instagram @janeledgerinteriors.

Jane loves spending time with her partner Raffaele (her ‘first love’ boyfriend. They reunited after 32 years apart, omg) by the ocean, digging her toes into the white sands of the beautiful WA coastline and wave-frolicking.

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As a young girl, Stefani watched, intrigued by her Dad’s architectural penmanship and drafting skills, as he designed and built their personal family home. From there, she was constantly sketching designs for “the perfect floorplan” and soaking up any design magazines she could get her hands on.

After high school graduation she spent her first two years of college studying Architecture at BYU Idaho. Widening her educational breadth, she changed her major to Interior Design and transferred to the FIDER-accredited Interior Design program at Utah State University. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from USU with her BS degree in 1996 and became NCIDQ certified in 2007. 

Throughout her 20+ years of design and construction experience, Stefani has worked as a staff designer for a boutique retailer, in furniture sales, as an independent design consultant, and as the lead architectural designer for a custom and production home builder. Her 10+ years designing homes for the custom and production builders gave Stefani an insider’s edge into quality and value- engineered home design and construction.

In 2015, Stefani opened her own residential design firm, Domani Home Design. Her typical clients are homeowners looking to “level up” their home environment. The home designs Stefani produces for them utilizes her unique SMART Cycle of Design© to create quality plans that tell the homeowners’ stories and fits their own personal lifestyle through the finished floor plans.

Stefani’s home designs have won multiple awards including several People’s Choice Award for the Cache Valley HBA’s Parade of Homes. Most recently, Stefani was privileged to implement her SMART Cycle of Design© for The House That She Built that was featured in the 2021 Utah Valley Parade of Homes. She is continuing her participation and volunteer work with the mission of THTSB to educate and provide opportunities for other women to join the residential construction industry.

Her design training courses teaching the SMART Cycle of Design© will be launched in the spring of 2022. She can be found on most social media platforms under the DomaniHomeDesign handle.

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Patricia Culley's architectural journey began in childhood, sparked by her love for art, math, and woodworking. A middle school career assessment revealed that architecture perfectly combined her interests. Working with muralist Doug Cooper at Carnegie Mellon deepened her appreciation for architectural drawing and storytelling through art, shaping her design approach.

At BCJ, Patricia learned to navigate complex projects, particularly in higher education, by revisiting core missions and adapting to evolving technical needs. Her passion for K-12 educational projects drives her to create environments that promote student growth and wellness.

Patricia emphasizes the importance of collaboration between designers and skilled tradespeople, as well as engaging with nature and hands-on experience. She values "building biology," which considers how materials affect occupant health, advocating for sustainable, non-toxic materials. Recognizing the impact of modern factors like electromagnetic fields (EMFs), she stresses designing healthy, emotionally resonant spaces that connect with nature while maintaining craftsmanship and historical integrity.

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Nick Deaver's journey into architecture began in West Texas, inspired by his father's work as an electrical contractor and his mother’s love for sewing. These early influences shaped Nick's vision, blending construction with creativity. His formal education at Texas Tech provided a strong technical foundation, but it was in practice that Nick developed his deep appreciation for human-centred design.

When Jess Deaver joined their firm, she broadened their scope, shifting the focus from individual homes to larger community impact. Together, they emphasize thoughtful design that resonates emotionally with people and respects the environment. Their philosophy centres around inclusivity, collaboration, and creating spaces that foster a sense of belonging, wellness, and connection to the land.

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Andrew has worked in the design industry for over 25 years and established his award-winning business MR. MITCHELL in November of 2000. With a particular focus on building meaningful relationships within the industry, he has established a strong network of professionals with whom he collaborates on a regular basis. 

Andrew Mitchell shares his extensive experience in the design industry and his transition to coaching. With a focus on helping designers navigate business challenges, Andrew highlights the importance of managing client expectations regarding budget, design, and timeframe. He emphasizes the need for client-centric decision-making and understanding the value equation over mere cost. Andrew also delves into the significance of collaboration, continuous learning, financial management, and having a positive mindset. He stresses transparency and flexibility in pricing to build trust with clients and maintain the perceived value of design services.

As an avid proponent of Australian design, Andrew loves collaborating with local artisans and craftsmen to produce interiors uniquely curated to suit the personalities of his clients. Skilled in the art of listening and blessed with an innate ability to connect the dots behind a brief, he leads his team to successfully exceed client expectations, time after time.

With projects spanning the residential, hospitality and commercial fields, his designs are customised to suit the individual aspirations and requirements of his clients. With a belief in the use of quality materials that are not only beautiful but durable and timeless, the interiors he creates far outlast transient interior trends.

As the founder of The Design Coach Australia, Andrew contributes to the ongoing professional development of architects, designers and stylists and is creating a platform for connecting and advancing the design community. Established in 2018, The Design Coach offers a range of classes, coaching services and retreats that aim to empower designers with knowledge and equip them with the confidence to successfully achieve their dreams.

From the early days of his business, Andrew has strived to contribute to both the design community and the community at large. Over the years he has participated in mentoring programs for design students and has instigated community events, raising money for multiple charitable organisations including Breast Cancer Australia, The Lighthouse Foundation and The National Trust of Australia.

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