The ability to solve a problem while considering the goals of a project is critical. Embracing project realities & constraints, cultivating a rigorous design attitude, and maintaining high aspirations all enable creativity.
McKinney York Architects
Inside the McKinney York studio, we share a belief in the transformational power of people united in a common purpose. Our goal is to create places that draw people together, serve, and inspire.
This belief manifests itself in collaboration. That means ongoing communication in the studio and with our design team, a lack of ego from the top down, and a collection of highly-capable, enthusiastic design professionals. Our staff are all exceptional designers and, rare within the profession, the majority are registered architects. Collaboration extends beyond the studio to embrace our clients. With each commission we actively engage our clients and listen attentively to uncover the unique qualities of their project and site. The aim of this effort is to reveal not only the client’s top-of-mind goals, but also latent functional and aspirational goals, as these often determine the real success of a project.
Our portfolio is evidence of this empathetic focus, rarely repeating a style, strategy, or solution from one project to the next. Clients tell us they value our ability to create designs that reflect their unique needs and personality.
From churches and chilling stations to branded workspaces and second homes, we have earned a reputation for timeless design and an expertise in tackling unusual projects. These qualities and sustained design excellence earned McKinney York the 2007 AIA Austin Firm Achievement Award and the Texas Society of Architects 2013 Architecture Firm Award – the highest honor a Texas architecture firm can receive. Our work has also appeared on or been published by Wired, The Wall Street Journal, HGTV, The Globe and Mail, NPR, Architectural Record, Architecture, Southern Living, and Texas Architect.
- Critically Recognized Winner of local, regional, and national awards; AIA Homes Tour participants; TxA 2013 Architecture Firm Award recipient
- Majority Registered Architects More than half of our Architectural staff are registered professionals.
- Established in 1983 We were founded in Austin, TX over 30 years ago.
- Sustainable Practice LEED professionals on staff; Austin Green Building Program certification experience; City of Austin Platinum-Level Green Business Leader.
- Certified HUB Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) certified by the State of Texas Building and Procurement Commission
Ideas
Creativity
"I’ll never forget the first time that Heather came back to us with the design of a building. It looked absolutely nothing like we expected and it was exactly what we wanted."
— Mike Rinehart, Riverbend Church
"It’s a wonderfully whimsical structure."
— Steve Dumez, FAIA on Tree House #9
Collaboration
Architecture is an interactive process – a series of collaborations between owners, designers, builders, and occupants. Success requires sincere curiosity and an appreciation of the talents of all participants.
"The Leander Park and Ride is a merging of architecture, landscape, graphic design, and public transportation – all beautifully done and integrated and no one element of which overshadows another."
— Frank Harmon, FAIA
"They are problem solvers. I had to be very creative to build the McGarrah Jessee Building within budget and on time, and we had many work sessions during design and construction to accomplish that."
— Bill Ball, Developer
Project Management
Good service and the success of a project are judged on expectations and performance. Expectations are set through the careful definition of project goals and objectives, then they are met through the fulfillment of promises, clear communication, ownership of project costs & schedule, and accurate documentation.
"MYA brings a deep understanding of the needs and wants of a church congregation embarking on a major capital investment in these difficult economic times. They have provided thoughtful options and recommendations at every step of the way…"
— James Miles, Building Committee Chair, Lake Travis UMC
"I don’t have to babysit; they are pro-active. I can trust their estimates and schedules, their CD’s are thorough, coordinated between disciplines, and professional, and their design sense is impeccable… They save me invaluable time."
— Deborah Femat, RA, UT Austin PMCS
Sustainability
The hot-humid Central Texas climate poses specific problems for sustainable design. The use of in-house energy modeling during conceptual design, the understanding of current building science strategies, and the use of energy efficient building systems are necessary to advance conventional practices.
"They bring that rare mixture of expertise in the science of architecture with an aesthetic sensibility for the beauty – the art of architecture – and they marry those two in a splendid way."
— John Wright, Oak Hill UMC
"At a time when much new construction is dominated by a short-term‘cheapest-per-square-foot possible mentality, …the [Robbs Run] house exemplifies an aspect of green-building that is sometimes overlooked – building to last."
— Wired Magazine
Context
A contributor to the fabric of a place or a monument within it; a part of a historical pattern or a prototype for future development; isolated or connected; natural or urban – A project should have a clear strategy to address its context.
"The proportions and scale of the Hance Chapel settle into the eastern prospect of the campus in a way that attests to its timeless nature, as if it had been here all along and the University grew around it."
— Andrew Vernooy, AIA, Dean at Texas Tech College of Architecture
"The African American Cultural and Heritage Facility really stood out as a good example of how a museum can be part of a neighborhood and how it could be integrated into a neighborhood."
— Teresa Rosano, AIA
Our Team
Heather is a guiding force behind the firm’s design voice. Her ability to listen critically has shaped our collaborative design process, and her skill at teasing out the underlying and unspoken needs of clients is a substantial factor in our projects’ success. Relying on her depth of experience, she offers insight and wisdom to all of our projects. In addition to her design contributions, she has devoted herself to cultivating the architectural profession through years of service on boards, commissions, and panels both locally and around the country.
“As a teacher, I am delighted by what her work affords – guidance for my students who are hungry for inspirational examples.” – Andrew Vernooy, AIA, Dean Texas Tech University College of Architecture
- Education
- University of Pennsylvania — Master of Architecture
- Stanford University — Bachelor of Arts, Mechanical Engineering
- Associations
- AIA Austin, President 1993
- Texas Society of Architects, President 2010
Al is a creative thinker with a knack for disentangling the most inscrutable problems. With our clients, as well as inside the studio, he plays a special leadership role for the firm – the person able to shift a conversation, reconcile differing viewpoints, or ask the right question at the right time to keep a project moving forward. In addition to his thorough understanding of the technical aspects of architectural practice, Al came to the firm with a background in teaching, having received multiple honors for his work at Texas Tech College of Architecture. Al believes in a rigorous formal design approach capable of underpinning an aesthetic flexibility.
“Al’s three-dimensional waterproofing details… I was amazed… I’ve never seen one again on any other project other than a McKinney York project… amazing.” – Carm Tassone, Harvey-Cleary
- Education
- Cornell University — Master of Architecture
- Auburn University — Bachelor of Architecture, magna cum laude
- Associations
- AIA Austin, President 2005, Design Awards Chair 2000-2001
- Texas Society of Architects
Michelle believes in the constant improvement of everything. She brings to the table a tenacious focus on creative design through every stage of every project. Complexities and limitations are not allowed to impact a project negatively, and the search for design opportunities is perpetual. Inside the studio, she constantly evaluates roles and responsibilities, adjusting them to solve problems and match the strengths and desires of every individual. Michelle places particular importance on creating a communicative and collaborative work environment.
“I cannot recall anyone with as much enthusiasm and dedication to her profession as I experienced with Michelle on our church project. I am reminded of her dedication every time I step onto our campus.” -Barbara Ruth, Oak Hill United Methodist Church
- Education
- University of Texas at Austin — Master of Architecture
- Tufts University — Bachelor of Science, cum laude
- Associations
- AIA Austin, Design Awards Chair 2003-2004
- Texas Society of Architects
- YouthLaunch, Board Member
As a graduate of both the Architecture and Engineering schools at the University of Texas, Will brings a unique design perspective to the firm. He is an advocate for modern building practices and energy efficiency with an interest in reconciling those obstacles with the desire for elegant solutions. In the studio, he leads an ongoing charge to develop and refine our production standards and processes. Will is also interested in materiality and detailing and how they inform design through all phases of a project.
Interests
Photography, travel, cooking, building science
What is your favorite quotation?
“Inspiration is for amateurs. The rest of us just show up and get to work.” -Chuck Close
- Education
- University of Texas at Austin — Bachelor of Architecture
- University of Texas at Austin — Bachelor of Science, Architectural Engineering
- Associations
- AIA Austin, Communications Committee Chair 2009
- Texas Society of Architects
- BEC Austin, Board Member 2014-present
Brian has brought a honed design eye and extraordinary client service to a range of high-profile, award-winning projects over his tenure with the firm. He is an avid and informed gardener, and is sensitive to orienting buildings within a landscape in a way that anchors them to their environment. Brian’s project leadership enriches our design collaborations with clients; they value his thoughtful responses to their needs and appreciate the clarity, comfort, and character his designs afford.
“We worked closely with our project manager, Brian Carlson… We were continually pleased by his ability to carefully listen to our needs and respond with innovative design solutions that surpassed our expectations.” – Owner, Robbs Run House
Interests
Gardening, cooking
Who was your most valued mentor?
It would have to be my high school art teacher, Eileen Montgomery. She challenged me to think conceptually about what I create.
- Education
- University of Texas at Austin — Bachelor of Architecture
- Associations
- AIA Austin, Design Awards Chair 2007-2008, Awards Commissioner 2009
- Texas Society of Architects
- Octopus Club
Navvab is a proponent of the social role of architects and architecture. She has a highly-informed and practical interest in sustainability, and a commitment to volunteering and community engagement, both inside and outside the office. She solves her projects’ most complex problems with aplomb, maximizing the positive impacts of each building on the client and the users. Prior to coming home to Austin and joining McKinney York Architects, Navvab spent almost 10 years working at firms in Massachusetts, Connecticut and at Zaha Hadid in London, England.
“The concepts were great. We continue to be impressed with your work and attention to our project.” -Sam Smith, client
Interests
Volunteer service at the preschool, in the parks, in my faith community, in my neighborhood; Pilates and yoga; renovating my 1950s-era house
What is your favorite place?
Hampstead Heath – it is a great place for hiking, picnicking, and relaxing, with the best views of London.
- Education
- The University of Texas at Austin — Bachelor of Architecture, magna cum laude
- Associations
- Texas Society of Architects, Design Awards Committee 2013-2015
- Southwood Neighborhood Association, Secretary, 2012-2015
- City of Austin Task Force on Community Engagement, appointee for District 5, 2015-present
Aaron is drawn to the cause without a champion. In architecture, that may be a project with a modest budget, a building that contributes to the fabric of the city rather than its monuments, or simply an unconventional design concept that deserves exploration. His interest in architectural history and theory infuse his work with a sensitivity towards context and precedent. His experience includes a range of work on educational buildings, science centers, museums, mixed-use developments, and private and institutional master planning.
“Thank you for your efforts to date on our project. The congregation at large is very excited about the expansion and looks forward to a beautiful and functional facility addition.” – Michael Delamore, Trinity Episcopal Church
- Education
- Yale University — Master of Architecture II, cum laude
- University of Texas at Austin — Bachelor of Architecture, summa cum laude
- Associations
- AIA Austin, Design Awards Committee Member 2012-present
- Texas Society of Architects
Ginger is the business anchor for the firm. She is integral to our contract preparation and management processes and she manages the firms accounting. Her previous experience in the fast-paced construction industry helps her identify and evaluate ways to run our business better, freeing our architecture team to fully invest their energy into their projects. She’s a stickler for details with the sharp mind and calm demeanor of an old-school accountant.
Interests
Scuba diving, running, strength training, gardening, NFL
What is your favorite quotation?
“If you argue for your limitations you get to keep them.”
What do you spend the most energy doing outside the office?
Fitness, gardening, being outdoors
What are you good at?
Finances, numbers, analyzing, projecting
- Education
- University of Maryland University College — Bachelor of Science, Accounting, cum laude
Interests
Reading, sustainability, craft beer/brewing, quilting
What is your favorite place?
The Victoria and Albert Museum in London – I lived in England for several years and on the occasions I found myself alone in London, I would spend hours wandering the halls – Each collection is so varied, touring exhibits are state of the art, the cafe is gorgeous, and on a nice day, there is a great collection to see in the central courtyard. I love the informality of it in the middle of a place that might be considered ‘stuffy.’
What do you spend the most energy doing outside the office?
I’m proud of traveling with family, truly exploring whatever place we happen to be in, and taking advantage of wherever and whenever that is. There’s a lot to explore and do within a day trip, and, despite being an introvert, I’d rather be moving and seeing and busy.
What is your favorite quotation?
“Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths” – Etty Hillesum
- Education
- Rice University — Bachelor of Architecture
- Rice University — Bachelor of Arts, Architecture
- Associations
- AIA Austin, Homes Tour Committee 2007-2010
- Texas Society of Architects
- Daybreak Parents Group 2011-2015, secretary 2014-15
Interests
Guitar, music, public policy, The Simpsons
What would you do if you weren’t in architecture?
Make music.
What is your favorite building?
The Eames house is one of my favorites. I like its simplicity, and how such a design was able to respond to and work so well with its site.
Why did you get into architecture?
I like the idea of making environments for people to thrive in, and I enjoy the mix of creative and technical work involved.
- Education
- University of Texas at Austin — Bachelor of Architecture
- Associations
- AIA Austin
- Texas Society of Architects
Interests
Other places and everything that goes with that including getting there, the food, the urban design, the transportation network, the buildings, the culture, the history; Almost anything to do with cooking, dining, food history, food culture; Maps – how they’re made, why they’re made, what they do and don’t communicate
What do you spend the most energy doing outside the office?
Cooking, thinking about what to cook next, picking out the next restaurant to try
What was your favorite project?
My favorite project was working on urban design for the Baltimore Red Line light rail. I enjoyed researching other cities to understand the relationships between transportation, physical space, and people, and identifying design opportunities that were based on these relationships and appropriate for the city of Baltimore. It was very enlightening and challenging to work directly with community members across the city during design, and to see their varied responses to the many aspects of the project.
What is your favorite city?
Paris – They nailed it.
- Education
- University of Oregon — Master of Architecture
- Georgia Tech — Bachelor of Science, Architecture, summa cum laude
- Associations
- AIA DC, Volunteer teacher for Architecture in Schools, 2010-2011
- AIA Austin
- Texas Society of Architects
Interests
Drawing, painting, spoiling Lucy (my Old English Sheepdog)
What would you do if you weren’t in architecture?
I’d train to be a tattoo artist in a heartbeat.
What was your favorite project?
It’s a tie between the Willie Nelson display case in the North End Zone at UT Stadium and the Austin Women & Children’s Shelter. The Willie Nelson project was the best ‘Welcome to Texas’ project I could ask for, and getting to meet Willie was a great bonus! The Women & Children’s Shelter is the most rewarding project I have ever been involved in. I was also given the opportunity to design a mural for the shelter, which was especially meaningful for me as an artist to be able to contribute in that way.
What are you good at?
I am a badass renderer. My favorite thing is to be able to visually translate the ideas that a person has in their mind into a compelling rendering or model.
- Education
- University of Maryland — Master of Architecture
- University of Maryland — Master of Historic Preservation
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Bachelor of Fine Arts, Interior Design
- Associations
- Friends of Austin Neighborhoods, Director 2015 – Present
- Congress for New Urbanism, Central Texas Chapter, 2014 – Present
Interests
Sculpture, woodworking
What do you spend the most energy doing outside the office?
Looking for ways to bottle and distribute the endless supply of energy and joy my son seems to be tapped into.
What is your ideal project?
A monument, memorial or large scale public art project
What architects and artists do you find inspiring?
Maya Lin, Renzo Piano, Martin Puryear, James Turrell, Richard Serra, Santiago Calatrava, Michael Heizer, Constantin Brancusi, Andy Goldsworthy, Chris Drury, Robert Smithson
- Education
- University of Texas at Austin — Master of Architecture
- Baylor University — Bachelor of Art, Studio Art, magna cum laude
- Associations
- Texas Sculpture Group, 2011-present
Interests
Making. That extends to almost everything: graphic design, a backyard deck, music, a dumb joke… I like the process of creating. I also just realized why my house is perpetually cluttered.
What do you spend the most energy doing outside the office?
Rehabilitating my basket case vintage BMW. Absurd classic car bubble notwithstanding, it’s a fun and affordable hobby (provided you do every bit of work yourself).
What was your favorite project?
Frost Bank 26 Doors. It looks like a fairly straightforward finish-out, but the now-40-year-old building was rife with significant structural and MEP and building code and accessibility considerations. All those layers combined to make a particularly challenging set of constraints that the project team had to negotiate. I think the result is simultaneously respectful of the character of the Old Austin shopping center and the architectural brand identity of Frost Bank. I’ve heard Al say many times that to bring out his best work, you have to challenge him; throw a bunch of restrictions on him; cut the budget in half (please don’t cut the budget in half!) – the ability to thrive in those situations is a major part of who we are as McKinney York Architects.
What is your favorite place?
Right now it’s probably Klyde Warren Park (in Dallas – gasp!). From the front door of our office you can see traffic on the scourge that is I-35, and it’s comforting to think that maybe, someday, we can transform it into a treasured, walkable social hub.
- Education
- University of Texas at Austin — Bachelor of Architecture
Interests
Biking, Woodworking, Lindy Hop, Bowling, British/Swedish murder mysteries, On the Media (Radio)
What do you spend the most energy doing outside the office?
Discovering Texas swimming holes
What is your favorite type of building?
Buildings that celebrate the craft of construction
- Education
- University of Texas at Austin — Master of Architecture
- Fuman University — Bachelor of Arts, Music
What would you do if you weren’t in architecture?
I’d probably be building cabinets and furniture or possibly working as a structural engineer. When I was younger, I always wanted to be a pilot and, eventually, an astronaut.
What is your favorite quotation?
“Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds” –Albert Einstein
What do you spend the most energy doing outside the office?
I’m usually out and about downtown, walking my dog, drinking beer, messing around on my guitar, making food, or doing some sort of outdoor activity.
What is your favorite place?
The Dome of Florence Cathedral, because it’s a technical marvel and Brunelleschi was the definitive master builder (not to mention the original Renaissance man).
- Education
- University of Texas at San Antonio — Master of Architecture
- University of Texas at San Antonio — Bachelor of Science, Architecture
- Associations
- AIA, Associate
Interests
Kitchen design, landscape, British crime dramas, Fresh Air (radio)
What do you spend the most energy doing outside the office?
Cruising around Texas. There is a lot to see.
What is your favorite building?
I love the De Young Museum in San Francisco. It’s a building with many gratifying moments. The museum’s grounds, in tandem with Renzo Piano’s California Academy of the Sciences across the street, feel like an ordered jungle.
- Education
- University of Texas — Master of Architecture
- Mississippi State University — Bachelor of Arts, Spanish & Business, summa cum laude
Interests
Photography, backpacking, film, economics, social sciences
What would you do if you weren’t in architecture?
A photojournalist, an analyst, or an Olympic weightlifter
What is your favorite quotation?
“Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.” -Carl Sagan
What do you spend the most energy doing outside the office?
Traveling, lifting heavy things, reading, cooking
What is your favorite place?
Tibet, for its spiritual and unapologetic terrain
- Education
- Cornell University — Bachelor of Architecture, cum laude
What would you do if you weren’t in architecture?
I would scavenge for old and unloved motorcycles, restore them, and find new homes for them.
What is a random fact about yourself?
I am an identical twin, like Tadao Ando.
What is your favorite place?
Teshima Art Museum by Ryue Nishizawa of SANAA. It is a simple, semi-enclosed concrete structure where you quietly observe drops of water move across the floor. This may sound a bit odd, but it is a powerful experience, I promise!
- Education
- University of Texas at Austin — Master of Architecture
- University of Virginia — Bachelor of Science, Architecture
- Associations
- RBI Austin (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities Austin), 2016 Mentor
- Architecture for Humanity, Baltimore Chapter, Co-founder 2010-2013
Interests
Film photography, New York City in the 1970s, craft beer, roadtrips and exploring new cities
What would you do if you weren’t at McKinney York Architects?
I’d be a stuntwoman, for sure.
What was your favorite quotation?
“Peculiar travel suggestions are dancing lessons from God.” -Kurt Vonnegut
What is your favorite building?
The Getty Center in Los Angeles. I remember visiting for the first time when I was about eight years old. I got off the trolley that takes visitors up the winding and bumpy path built into the side of the hill and asked my mom, “Is this heaven?” The way the series of pristine white buildings looked against the cloudless blue sky was unforgettable.
- Education
- The King's College, New York City — Bachelor or Arts, Media, Culture and The Arts
Interests
BBQ, stand-up comedy, running
What would you do if you weren’t in architecture?
I’d be a developer/builder of single- and multi-family homes and small-scale commercial buildings.
What is your favorite quote?
“A house is a machine for living in” – Le Corbusier
Who are your favorite architects?
Renzo Piano and David Baker. Piano makes large scale commercial projects look so graceful. Baker keeps finding ways to be inventive in multi-family housing, and he does many affordable housing projects in San Francisco, which are vital in such a high-cost housing market.
- Education
- University of Texas at Austin — Bachelor of Architecture
- Associations
- AIA
- Texas Society of Architects
Interests
Painting, travel and photography, fashion design
- Education
- Texas A&M University — Master of Architecture
- Donghua University, Shanghai — Bachelor of Art
Interests
Surfing, building computers, restoring classic cars
What is your favorite place?
I have several. One is my families place on the Colorado River on the border of California and Arizona. Others are Yosemite and Sedona.
What accomplishment are you most proud of and why?
Finishing the restoration of my 1967 Camaro. I began been restoring the car before high school and it was amazing to see the project finally come together after 15 years.
What is the most difficult lesson you have learned?
Don’t be afraid of change because life is constantly changing.
- Education
- The Catholic University of America — Master of Architecture
- The Catholic University of America — Bachelor of Architecture
Recognition
Honors & Awards
Our work has been recognized both locally and nationally over 40 times since 1987, when our first commission received AIA Austin’s highest design honor. This acclaim spans a wide variety of project types, and reflects that at our core, we’re a design firm first and foremost. Our enthusiasm for good design drives every project we have the pleasure of working on – from the very largest right down to an award-winning treehouse built for $1,000.
Our work has been recognized both locally and nationally over 40 times since 1987, when our first commission received AIA Austin’s highest design honor. A comprehensive list can be found on the desktop version of our site. Our enthusiasm for good design drives every project we have the pleasure of working on – from the very largest right down to an award-winning treehouse built for $1,000.
View all Honors & Awards
Publications
You’ll find our work in many books, magazines, television shows, and radio spots over the last 30 years. Within the “work” pages of this website are listings of publications for each respective project, and you can view the master list below. We’re proud to have been featured in great publications and media like The Wall Street Journal, Texas Architect, HGTV, and NPR.
You’ll find our work in many books, magazines, television shows, and radio spots over the last 30 years. Within the “work” pages of this website are listings of publications for each respective project, and you can view the master list on the desktop version of our website. We’re proud to have been featured in great publications and media like The Wall Street Journal, Texas Architect, HGTV, and NPR.
View all Publications
Close Honors & Awards
Firm Awards
AIA COMPONENT AWARDS
- 2014, AIA Austin Design Award, MetroRapid Stations
- 2014, AIA Austin Design Award, Tree Fort #9
- 2013, Texas Society of Architects Firm of the Year Award
- 2013, AIA Austin Merit Award, African American Cultural and Heritage Facility
- 2012-2015, AIA National IDP Firm Award
- 2012, Texas Society of Architects Design Award, McGarrah Jessee Building
- 2011, AIA Austin Citation of Honor Award, McGarrah Jessee Building
- 2007, AIA Austin Firm Achievement Award, McKinney York Architects
- 2007, AIA Austin Citation of Honor Award, Leander Park and Ride
- 2007, AIA Austin Citation of Honor Award, City Loft Residence
- 2007, AIA Austin Citation of Honor Award, Waco Residence
- 2007, AIA Austin Citation of Honor, Constant Springs Residence
- 2006, AIA Austin Merit Award, Robbs Run Residence
- 2002, AIA Lubbock Citation Award, Buddy Holly Center
- 2001, AIA Austin Citation of Honor, Tarrytown Residence
- 1997, AIA Austin Merit Award, Redbud Trail Guest House Addition
- 1996, AIA Austin Citation of Honor, Chow Ciao!
- 1992, AIA Austin Merit Award, Canadian Cottage
- 1990, AIA Austin Merit Award, Circle C Swim Center
- 1990, AIA Austin Merit Award, Jester Estates Clubhouse
- 1988, AIA Austin Citation of Honor, Forgie Residence
- 1987, AIA Austin Honor Award, Canyon House
OTHER AWARDS
- 2014, Best of Houzz
- 2013, Historic Rehabilitation Award, Preservation Texas, African American Cultural and Heritage Facility
- 2013, Brick in Architecture Best in Class Award, Brick Industry Association, Kent R. Hance Chapel
- 2013, Preservation Merit Award for Properties, Preservation Austin, African American Cultural and Heritage Facility
- 2013, Best of Houzz
- 2012, Architect Magazine’s Annual Design Award Review, McGarrah Jessee Building
- 2012, Excellence in Construction Award, Associated Builders and Contractors, Holland Family Student Center
- 2012, City of Austin, Platinum Green Business Leader
- 2012, Historic Rehabilitation Award, Preservation Texas, McGarrah Jessee Building
- 2011, Preservation Merit Award for Properties, Heritage Society of Austin, McGarrah Jessee Building
- 2011, Hottest Commercial Design, Austin Monthly Home, McGarrah Jessee Building
- 2010, Honor Award, Texas ASLA, University of Texas Student Union
- 2010, House of the Month, Architectural Record, Shavano Park House
- 2008, Grand Award, Remodeling Magazine Design Awards, Constant Springs Residence
- 2007, Texas Construction Best, UT Dell Pediatric Research Institute
- 2005, Premier Party Selection, AIA Austin, City Loft
- 2001, Certificate of Excellence, Associated General Contractors of Austin, Smith Family Chapel
- 2001, Tucker Award, Stone Building Institute, San Antonio River House
- 1991, Council Grove Competition Winner
- 1990, Honor Award, Austin Design Commission, Jester Estates Clubhouse
- 1988, National Merit Award, Metal Construction Association, Johnstone Residence, 1988
TOURS
- 2012, Texas Society of Architects Convention Tour, Living and Working Downtown, McGarrah Jessee Building
- 2011, AIA Austin Homes Tour, Cuernavaca House
- 2011, Revival of the Starr Building: Design Within Reach Tour, McGarrah Jessee Building
- 2007, AIA National Convention Tour, Robbs Run, City Loft
- 2007, Texas Society of Architects Convention Tour, City Loft
- 2007, New Urban Architecture Tour, San Antonio River House
- 2005, AIA Austin Homes Tour, Robbs Run Residence
- 2004, AIA Austin Homes Tour, Hartford Road Residence
- 2001, AIA Austin Homes Tour, Shoal Creek Residence
- 2001, AIA Austin Tour, Smith Family Chapel
- 2000, AIA Austin Tour, Riverbend Main Sanctuary
- 1998, AIA Austin Homes Tour, 1806 Eva Street
- 1997, AIA Austin Homes Tour, McKinney Residence
- 1992, AIA Austin Homes Tour, Sherman Residence
- 1998, University of Texas at Austin Tour, McKinney Architects Offices
- 1987, AIA Austin Homes Tour, Cromwell Hill Residence
Individual Honors
HEATHER MCKINNEY, FAIA, LEED AP
- 2008, Fellowship, AIA College of Fellows
- 2007, Tau Sigma Delta Silver Medal, Texas Tech University
- 2005, President’s Award, AIA Austin
- 2001, 7th Annual Profiles in Power Finalist, Austin Business Journal
- 1992, William W. Caudill Award For Young Professional Achievement, Texas Society of Architects
AL YORK, AIA
- 2007, Executive Director’s Award, AIA Austin
- 1997, El Portal International Design Competition, Third Prize
- 1995, “Good Architect” Award for Influence on Graduate Education, Texas Tech University
- 1994, New Faculty Award, Texas Tech University Ex-Students Association
- 1993, Tau Sigma Delta Teaching Excellence Award, Texas Tech University
- 1989, Winning Design, Baltimore AIA – Residential Design Competition
- 1987, Tau Sigma Delta Bronze Medal, Auburn University
MICHELLE ROSSOMANDO, AIA
- 2012, ENR’s Top 20 Under 40, Engineering News Record’s Texas & Louisiana Region
- 2003, Young Architectural Professional Award, AIA Austin
- 1997, Lorine W. and Chester E. Nagel FAIA Scholarship for Excellence
Selected Recent Lectures and Panels
HEATHER MCKINNEY, FAIA, LEED AP
- 2013, Speaker & Panelist, “The Original Shade Structure: Designing Around Mature Trees for Responsible and Beautiful Public Spaces,” Texas Society of Architects Convention
- 2012, “Design Awards Panel 1″, Texas Society of Architects Convention
- 2012, “Student-Centered Placemaking”, AIA Austin Summer Conference
- 2011, Speaker & Panelist, “Striking Career, Family and Life Balance,” Texas Society of Architects Convention
- 2011, Speaker, “Renovation with Soul,” AIA Austin Summer Conference
- 2009, Guest Lecturer, A Career Synopsis, Texas Tech University
- 2008, Speaker & Panelist, “Can Green and Affordable Coexist?”, Reinvention Symposium, Austin, Texas
- 2008, Guest Lecturer, Design Environment & Society, Texas Tech University
- 2007, Speaker & Panelist “Strategies in Sustainable Design,” and “Considering Context: The Altered House,” Reinvention Symposium, Charleston, South Carolina
- 2007, Tau Sigma Delta Silver Medalist & Lecturer, Texas Tech University
- 2007, Umlauf Gardens Architecture Series “Recent Works”
- 2002, Texas Society of Architects Convention “A Marketing Primer for the Emerging Practice”
- 2002, Texas Society of Architects Convention Student Charette
- 2001, Denison Heritage Inc Talk with Frank Welch on Modernist Legacy of Donald Mayes
- 2001, Texas Book Festival Moderator: Frank Welch “Philip Johnson in Texas,” Barry Scardino “Clayton’s Galveston”
AL YORK, AIA
- 2012, “Design Awards Panel 1″, Texas Society of Architects Annual Convention
- 2012, “Student-Centered Placemaking”, AIA Austin Summer Conference
- 2008, Panelist, AIA Austin “Working with an Architect”
- 2007, Moderator, AIA Austin “Ask an Architect”
- 2001, City of Austin Second Neighborhood Conference, “Curb Appeal”
- 1994, ACSA Western Regional Conference, “Casa Llano”
- 1993, ACSA Northeast Regional Conference, “Competition and Continuity on Campus”
Selected Juries
HEATHER MCKINNEY, FAIA, LEED AP
- 2013, Juror, AIA South Carolina Design Awards
- 2013, Juror, AIA Arkansas Design Awards
- 2011, Juror, AIA Louisiana Design Awards
- 2010, Juror, Topping Out Dallas-Fort Worth Design Awards
- 2005, Juror, AIA Washington, D. C. Residential Design Awards
- 2003, Juror, Residential Architect Magazine Design Awards
- 2001, Juror, American Institute of Architects, West Texas Chapter Design Awards
AL YORK, AIA
- 2009, Juror, Texas Masonry Council Golden Trowel Awards Design Awards
- 2008, Juror, AIA Austin, Studio Awards
- 2007, Juror, Lower Rio Grande Valley AIA, Design Awards
- 2006, Juror, Santa Fe Homebuilders Association Design Awards
- 2005, Juror, Lubbock AIA Design Awards
- 2004, Juror, Texas Masonry Council Golden Trowel Awards
BRIAN CARLSON, AIA
- 2009, Juror, Golden Trowel Awards for the San Antonio Masonry Contractors Association (SAMCA)
Close Publications
Books
- 2010, Practical Green Remodeling: Down to Earth Solutions for Everyday Homes, Barry Katz
- 2009, City by Design: An Architectural Perspective of Texas, Panache Partners
- 2007, Making Room: Finding Spaces in Unexpected Places, Wendy A. Jordan
- 2007, Best of Signature Baths, Creative Homeowner Press
- 2006, New Sustainable Homes, Designs for Healthy Living, James Grayson Trulove
Magazines
- 2013, Austin Home, “Lofty Perch,” by Gene Menez, Winter issue
- 2013, Architect, “The 2013 Brick in Architecture Award Winners,” December issue
- 2013, Texas Architect, “Sacred Spaces,” May/June issue
- 2012, Texas Architect, “Redeveloping Student Life,” by Larry Speck, David Sharratt and Samuel Wilson, November/December issue
- 2012, Texas Architect, “McGarrah Jessee Building,” adapted from “Mid-century Update,” by Stephen Sharpe, September/October issue
- 2012, Austin-San Antonio Urban Home, “Minimalist Magic,” by Dana W. Todd, February/March issue
- 2012, Home & Architectural Trends, “Heart of Glass,” September issue
- 2011, Austin Monthly Home, “The Hot List,” Devin Dickey, Alexis Mosier and Mitchell Alan Parker, Fall issue
- 2011, Western Art & Architecture, “Sparkle and Light in San Antonio,” Amy E. Lemen, Spring/Summer issue
- 2011, Residential Architect, “On the Web and In the Loop,” Cheryl Weber LEED AP, March/April issue
- 2011, Texas Architect, “Mid-century Update,” Stephen Sharpe, March/April issue (COVER FEATURE)
- 2010, Signature Kitchens & Baths, “A Touch of Glass,” Winter issue
- 2010, Signature Kitchens & Baths, “Glassy Getaway,” Winter issue
- 2010, Residential Architect, “ra50: The Shortlist,” Nigel F. Maynard & Cheryl Weber LEED AP, November/December issue
- 2010, San Antonio Magazine, “People in Glass Houses,” Nancy Cook-Monroe, June issue
- 2010, Luxury Home Quarterly, “Acclaim: Custom Home Projects of Note”, May/June issue
- 2010, Austin Woman Magazine, “Refresh Your Nest,” Katy McIntosh, March issue
- 2010, Signature Kitchens & Baths, “Efficient Culinary Space,” Spring issue
- 2010, Signature Kitchens & Baths, “Lofty Expectations,” Spring issue
- 2009, Residential Architect, “Reaching Out,” October issue
- 2009, Texas Architect, “Efficient Infill,” Winter issue
- 2009, Residential Architect, “Workspace,” July/August issue
- 2009, Austin Monthly Home, “The Perfect Room,” Fall issue
- 2009, Austin Monthly Home, “I Can See Clearly Now,” Fall issue
- 2009, Metal Architecture, “Award Winning Commuter and Bus Transfer Station,” April issue
- 2009, San Antonio Magazine, “A Place for Everything,” Nancy Cook-Monroe, February issue
- 2009, Builder Magazine, “Little Gems,” Jenny Sullivan, February issue
- 2009, Qualified Remodeler, “Double Exposure,” Jon Minnick, February issue
- 2008, American Dream Homes, “A Step Above,” Fran Thomas, January/February issue
- 2008, Stone World, “Blending Existing and New Stone Architecture,” Alexis Fisher, February issue (COVER FEATURE)
- 2008, Residential Architect, “K+B Studio,” Shelly D. Hutchins, March issue
- 2008, Remodeling, “Kitchen Details,” Nina Patel, April issue
- 2008, Austin Monthly Home, “Spicing Things Up” (Kitchen-of-the-Year Runner Up), Katherine Richardson, Spring issue
- 2008, Texas Architect, “Portfolio: Service Buildings,” Megan Braley, May/June issue
- 2008, Innovative Home, “Seeing the Forest for the Trees,” Heather Hill, Summer issue (COVER FEATURE)
- 2008, Texas Architect, “AIA Austin Awards Seven Projects,” Brian Carlson, AIA, July/August issue
- 2008, Texas Home & Living, “Outside In,” Laura Mohammad, July/August issue (COVER FEATURE)
- 2008, Western Interiors, “Shelf Life,” August/September issue
- 2008, Texas Architect, “House Proud,” Heather McKinney, FAIA, September/October issue
- 2008, Austin Woman, “Heather McKinney: Architect,” Stacy Stroud, October issue
- 2008, Remodeling, “Designed for Living,” October issue
- 2008, The Good Life, “Downsizing in the Sky,” Amy E. Lemen, December issue
- 2007, Texas Homes & Living, “On the Lighter Side,” Jennifer Krichels, September/October issue
- 2007, Brilliant, “Same Place Fresh Start,” Phillip Hudson, June/July issue
- 2007, Western Interiors, “Family Jewel,” Helen Thompson, June/July issue
- 2007, Austin Monthly Home, “Made for Entertaining,” Becca Hensley, Summer issue
- 2007, Austin Monthly Home, “A Piece of Work,” Katherine Richardson, Spring issue
- 2007, Kitchen Trends, “Social Outlook,” Spring issue
- 2007, Austin Wide Open Entertainment, “The Urban Office,” Spring issue
- 2007, Residential Architect, “End Quotes,” March issue
- 2007, Wired, “Big Chill,” Rebecca Harper, January issue
- 2007, Viewpoint, “Innovative Applications,” Rich Binsacca, September issue
- 2006, Innovative Home, “Texas Treasure,” Alison Crouch, Winter issue
- 2006, Architectural Record, “Not Only Zaha,” Suzanne Stephens, December issue
- 2006, Metalmag, “Setting the Tone,” Brian Carlson, November/December issue
- 2006, Signature Kitchens & Baths, “Arts and Crafts,” Heather H. McKinney, Fall issue
- 2006, Texas Coop Power, “Green by Design: Style + Substance,” Jody Horton, June issue
- 2005, Tribeza, “The Loft Life,” Ingrid Spencer, August issue
- 2005, The Good Life, “Children’s Spaces,” Heather H. McKinney, June issue
- 2004, Residential Architect, “Revisions of Home: Ranch,” Meghan Drueding, November/December issue
- 2004, Custom Home, “Pipe Dream,” November/October issue
- 2003 The Good Life, “Home Additions: Expensive, Problematic, and Popular,” Michelle Moon Reinhardt, June issue
- 2003, Residential Architect, “Architects’ Choice,” Shelly D. Hutchins, April issue
- 2002, Golfer’s Guide, “Teravista Golf Club,” December issue (COVER FEATURE)
- 2002, People Magazine, “Texas Two-Step,” November issue
- 2002, Texas Architect, “Neighborhood Lost and Found,” Heather H. McKinney, March issue
- 2002, Texas Architect, “Denison Salutes Mayes Legacy,” Heather H. McKinney, January issue
- 2001, Residential Architect, “San Antonio Gem,” December issue
- 2001, Building Stone Magazine, “San Antonio Riverhouse,” Dorothy Kender, June issue
- 2000, Texas Architect, “Lubbock Opens the Buddy Holly Center,” Gary W. Smith/Sally Abbe, January issue
- 1998, House Beautiful, “Echo Chambers,” Lisa Germany, April issue
- 1997, Texas Architect, “Six for the Record Books,” December issue
- 1997, Southern Living, “Recipe for a Better View,” May issue
- 1995, Southern Living, “Open and Shut Studies,” October issue
- 1995, Interiors and Sources Magazine, “School Orientation,” Diane Wintroub Calmenson, October issue
- 1995, Builder Magazine, “Kid Stuff,” Linde Altman, March issue
- 1993, Metropolitan Home, “Lake Idyll,” David Staskowski, August issue
- 1991, Architecture, “Women in Architecture,” Ray Don Tilley, October issue
- 1990, Domain, “Women in Architecture,” Joel Warren Barna, February issue
- 1989, Texas Architect, “Texas Houses: Context Versus Subtext,” Joel Warren Barna, June issue
- 1987, House Beautiful Building Manual, “Taming Problem Sites: Placed to Capture the View,” Fall issue
- 1987, Texas Homes, “Graceful Balance,” Lisa Kestler, May issue
- 1987, Texas Homes, “Texas Talent,” Rebecca O’Dell, April issue
- 1983, Texas Architect, “Hill Country House,” June issue
Newspapers
- 2013, Austin Business Journal, “Journal Profile: Al York,” Jan Buchholz, December
- 2013, Austin Business Journal, “Affordable Housing Project Opens in East Austin,” Jan Buchholz, November
- 2013, Austin Business Journal, “UT Geology School Remodel Revolves Around a Magic Planet,” Jan Buchholz, March
- 2010, Austin Business Journal, “Renovated Starr gets ad agency as Namesake Tenant,” Sandra Zaragosa, November
- 2009, Austin American-Statesman, “Austin’s Starr Building to Be Reborn,” Shonda Novak, June
- 2007, West Austin News, “Beautifying Private Residences and Public Spaces,” Yvonne Lim Wilson, June
- 2007, Austin American-Statesman, “Design Award Winners,” Jeanne Claire van Ryzin, May
- 2007, Austin American-Statesman, “Mastering the Art of Living, Giving,” Jeanne Claire van Ryzin, May
- 2005, Austin American-Statesman Glossy, “Big Ideas Thrive Within Small Spaces,” Jeanne Claire van Ryzin, September
- 2003, Austin American-Statesman, “Teravista Course Garners Praise,” September
- 2003, Austin American-Statesman, “Welcome to Mega-House Backlash: Saner, More Soulful Dwellings that Don’t Waste a Square Foot,” Jeanne Claire van Ryzin, April
- 2001, Austin American-Statesman, “Modest Changes Give Plain ‘60s Home Pizazz,” Jeanne Claire van Ryzin, October
- 2001, Austin American-Statesman, “Raise the Roof,” Tim Green, October
- 2001, The Dallas Morning News, “Grayson County Tribute Honors Regional Architect,” Kathryn Straach, October
- 2001, Herald Democrat, “Noted Architects Will Discuss Donald Mayes,” Dave Bellows, October
- 2001, The Dallas Morning News, “Comfortable, Mannerly, and Unpretentious Homes,” David Dillion, October
- 2000, Austin American-Statesman, “On the Job,” Charlotte Moore, October
- 2000, Austin American-Statesman, “LBJ Holding Enters Luxury Condos,” R. Michelle Breyer, June
- 2000, Austin Business Journal, “LBJ to Build Condos,” Matt Hudgins, June
- 1999, Austin American-Statesman, “The Best of Both Worlds,” Michael Barnes, August
- 1999, Austin American-Statesman, “Back to the Future,” Sheryll Poe, December
- 1998, Austin American-Statesman, “Artisan Touches Are Distinctly Austin,” Michael Barnes, October
- 1997, Austin American-Statesman, “Six Design Projects Honored Thursday,” Lisa Germany, November
- 1996, Austin American-Statesman, “Honoring Austin’s Best Designs,” John Ferguson, September
- 1993, Austin American-Statesman, “Caring Community,” Janet Wilson, December
- 1992, Denison Herald, “Heather McKinney Top ‘92 Texas Architect,” August
- 1992, Austin Business Journal, “Razing Barriers, Building Careers,” Allan C. Kimball, April
- 1991, The Dallas Morning News, “Young Guns,” David Dillon, June
- 1990, Austin American Statesman, “Tops in Austin, By Design,” August
- 1988, Sherman Democrat, “Johnstone Home Wins Award,” March
- 1988, Austin American-Statesman, “Design Awards Jury See the Future in Austin,” Michael McCullar, July
- 1987, Tyler Courier-Times-Telegraph, “Winning Design,” May
- 1985, Austin American-Statesman, “Architectural Artistic Accent,” Mel McCombie, October
Web
- 2013, Wall Street Journal, “Banquettes: The Posh Corner Table,” Laila Kearney, December
- 2013, The Globe and Mail, “Why Architects are Touting Metal Roofs for Urban Dwellers,” Dave McGinn, October
- 2011, KXAN, “Shack becomes History Center: African American Center coming to East Austin,” Kate Weidaw, January
- 2010, Architectural Record, “House of the Month: May 2010, Shavano Park House,” Ingrid Spencer, May
- 2009, AIArchitect This Week, “McKinney York Transit Facility Asks Texans to Park and Ride Off into the Sunset,” Zach Mortice, May
- 2009, Austin American-Statesman, “Austin’s Starr Building to Be Reborn,” Shonda Novak, June
- 2008, Austin Business Journal, “McKinney Architects Heads to East Austin,” July
Television / Radio
- 2013, “AT&T U-verse with GigaPower” Commercial
- 2011, HGTV “Bang for Your Buck”
- 2011, KXAN “Austin News”
- 2006, KLRU “Austin Now”
- 2003, MTV “Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica” Episode 1
- 2003, InStyle “Celebrity Weddings”
- 2001, HGTV “Curb Appeal”
- 2001, Public Radio Program “The Shape of Texas”Magazine