Business Details
33 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architecture Partner in Brattleboro, VT
Austin Design is a worker-owned architecture firm dedicated to transforming client visions into meaningful spaces that reflect and drive purpose. Founded in 1993 by Bill Austin, we transitioned to a cooperative structure in 2022, building on decades of experience in sustainable design and community-focused projects. Our team combines technical expertise with creative innovation, specializing in commercial, community, single-family, and multi-family projects. We prioritize energy efficiency, accessibility, and site-responsive solutions, ensuring each design harmonizes tradition with modern technology. With over 30 years of collective experience, our architects and designers approach every project with empathy, craftsmanship, and a commitment to leaving a positive legacy.Our work spans renovations, new constructions, and eco-conscious developments, serving diverse sectors including housing, education, and hospitality. We believe architecture should enhance lives and communities, fostering social interaction through thoughtful placemaking. Our collaborative process emphasizes client needs, delivering projects on time and within budget while maintaining artistic integrity. From concept to completion, we strive to create spaces that inspire and endure.
Services
Commercial Architecture
Community Projects
Single-Family Homes
Multi-Family Housing
Sustainable Design
Historic Renovations
Public Sector Buildings
Eco-Friendly Developments
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We are a worker-owned cooperative with 30+ years of architectural expertise
- Our team includes certified Passive House Consultants and seasoned project managers
- Specializing in sustainable design and energy-efficient building solutions
- Proven track record in diverse project types from breweries to senior housing
- Committed to community impact through socially responsible architecture
Services
Commercial Architecture
We design functional, aesthetically pleasing commercial spaces tailored to business needs. Our expertise includes breweries, office buildings, and retail spaces that balance practicality with innovative design. Projects incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems while maintaining brand identity. Our team ensures compliance with commercial building codes and accessibility standards.
Community Projects
Specializing in community-focused developments including senior housing, eco-villages, and public facilities. We create inclusive spaces that foster social interaction and community engagement. Our approach emphasizes accessibility, durability, and environmental responsibility while meeting specific community needs through collaborative design processes.
Sustainable Design
We integrate eco-friendly practices into all project types, specializing in energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials. Our Passive House-certified professionals deliver buildings that minimize environmental impact while maximizing comfort. Services include site analysis for natural resource optimization and implementation of renewable energy solutions.
Multi-Family Housing
Comprehensive design services for multi-family residential developments including affordable housing and supportive living communities. We create functional layouts that maximize space efficiency while ensuring compliance with housing regulations. Our designs balance modern aesthetics with practical considerations for property management and resident comfort.
Single-Family Homes
We design personalized residences that reflect homeowners' lifestyles and values. From modern simplicity to traditional craftsman styles, our homes incorporate energy-efficient features and site-specific design elements. Services include full architectural design, construction documentation, and sustainable building strategy implementation.
People
Tom Chalmers
Architect
35+ years specializing in multi-family affordable housing and public sector projects. Expertise in sustainable design and historic renovations. Combines professional excellence with farm life experience.
Patrick Kitzmiller
Architect
Brings construction experience and biology background to create functional modern designs. Focuses on simple materials and craftsmanship. Active in local coffee and chocolate communities.
Bryan Louisell
Designer/Project Manager
16-year firm veteran with 20+ years residential/commercial design experience. Known for timely delivery and innovative solutions. Enjoys campervan projects and rock climbing.
Raphael Rosner
Designer/Project Manager
25+ years architectural experience blending traditional methods with modern technology. Specializes in site-responsive solutions that create lasting value for clients.
Bill Austin
Founder
Established firm in 1993 and led for 30 years. Pioneered collaborative approach that enabled transition to worker cooperative. Retired in 2022 after successful succession planning.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in commercial buildings, community projects, single-family homes, and multi-family housing with a focus on sustainable design and energy efficiency.
Are you a certified green architecture firm?
Yes, our team includes Passive House Consultants and we integrate sustainable practices in all projects using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems.
What makes your firm unique?
We're a worker-owned cooperative with 30+ years of combined experience, combining collaborative ownership with technical expertise and community-focused design.
Do you work on historic building renovations?
Yes, we have extensive experience with historic renovations including envelope repairs, accessibility upgrades, and preservation of architectural character.
What geographic areas do you serve?
Based in Brattleboro, Vermont, we serve clients throughout the Northeast United States for both local and regional projects.
How do you approach client collaboration?
We use a collaborative process emphasizing client needs through regular communication, transparent budgeting, and design solutions that reflect each client's unique vision.
