We enjoy the meticulous process of architectural design, which requires the constant consideration of the overall composition, even when working at the finest detail. We strive to create buildings that feel deeply rooted in the ground beneath them by designing finely crafted roof and wall constructions which will endure natural forces for hundreds of years.

Our greatest joy is discovering new ways that our clients will inhabit their buildings. We have explored the delicate relationship between public and private spaces. Our design intention is to accommodate for the specific needs of our client while maintaining a spatial and structural integrity. Although we are known for our use of local materials, we also enjoy experimentation with less commonly used materials and collaboration with local artisans and craftspeople in making custom doors, pavings, light fixtures and other furnishings. We look forward to hearing from you.

 

GARY FURMAN, AIA, PRINCIPAL:

Gary, a native Texan, started the firm in 1995 after working for ten years with other Austin-based architecture firms, including Charles Moore Architects, Dick Clark Architects, and Paul Lamb Architects. Prior to studying architecture Gary designed and built furniture in Austin for several years. Gary is a board member of the non-profit organization, Shelter with Spirit. He has a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin, and is a member of the American Institute of Architects. Texas Architect registration #13481. Email Gary

 

PHILIP KEIL, AIA, PRINCIPAL:

Philip worked with Gary Furman Architects for five years before joining as a partner to form Furman + Keil Architects in 2005. Philip had six years prior experience working for Santiago Calatrava in Paris, Perkins and Will in Chicago, and Austin-based firms Paul Lamb Architects and the Austin Collaborative. Before practicing architecture, Philip was an engineer at Texas Instruments in Dallas. He has a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the University of Michigan, and a Master of Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin. Texas Architect registration #17643. Email Philip.

 
 

CHRISTINE ODOM, PROJECT ARCHITECT:

Christine graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with supplementary experience in historic preservation and a semester studying at Santa Chiara in Italy. Her experience is with Andersson Wise Architects in Austin working on residential and institutional projects as well as with Limbacher & Godfrey working on civic, preservation and residential projects. She is a member of the AIA sponsored Young Architectural Professionals group. Texas Architect registration # 20662 Email Christine.

 

KATE TART, PROJECT MANAGER

Kate worked as an environmental consultant for Melaver, Inc. a developer and property management company in Savannah, Georgia. She was responsible for converting Melavers real estate portfolio and business practices in order to reduce their impact on the environment, by authoring new property management guidelines as well as aiding in the construction of two LEED Certified buildings. Prior to that she worked for HGBD Architects in Savannah, Georgia and KCB Architects in Philadelphia on educational and civic projects. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from the University of Washington, and a Master of Architecture with an emphasis in Sustainable Design from the University of Texas at Austin. Kate is a LEED Accredited Professional and is dedicated to designing with the environment in mind.Email Kate.

   

DAVE BIRT, PROJECT MANAGER

Dave is an Austin native and joined Furman + Keil in the spring of 2007.  He has had prior experience with the Dallas-based architecture firms BECK, workarchitecture, and the office of Sharon Odum.  His experience ranges from residential and multi-family, to commercial, and religious project types.  Before practicing architecture, Dave studied graphic design emphasizing print making techniques and print media.  Dave holds a Bachelor of Architecture and a Master of Architecture form the University of Texas at Arlington, and is an associate member of the American Institute of Architects. Email Dave,

 

involvement in the community

American Institute of Architects: promoting the value of Architects and Architecture. Our houses were featured on the AIA Austin Homes Tour in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2005, and 2007.   www.aiaaustin.org/, www.austin.tvoa.net/index.php

Austin Green Building Program:  promoting energy-efficient, sustainable building practice in Austin. www.austinenergy.com/Energy%20Efficiency/Programs/Green%20Building/index.htm

The Nature Conservancy: we are underwriting sponsors and a host committee member for the Central Texas chapter’s annual Awards Luncheon fundraiser, raising money to help protect and restore our nation’s lands and waters.  www.nature.org

Shelter with Spirit:  helping people live in healthy, sustainable environments.   www.shelterwithspirit.org/

Friends of Architecture member

Meals on Wheels: our firm proudly drives route 141.  www.mealsonwheelsandmore.org

“Hello Birdie” charity fundraiser, birdhouse designs for silent auction sponsored by Big Red Sun and Sustainable Food Center of Austin, 2004 & 2005 www.sustainablefoodcenter.org/

Women & Their Work: 2005 and 2007 sponsor for “Making Waves” event to support Austin arts education programs. www.womenandtheirwork.org

Texas Fine Arts Association: Invitational exhibition and fundraiser auction, 1993, 1994, & 1995 www.arthousetexas.org/

Charles Moore Center for Study of Place: invitational exhibition & fundraiser auction, 2000, 2002, & 2003 www.charlesmoore.org

 

awards, publications & events
 

Austin Monthly Homes , Summer 2007, article featuring Mission Ridge

Western Interiors, January/February 2007, article featuring Buckeye

Austin Magazine , January/February 2007, article featuring Sayers House

AIA Austin 2005 Design Award, Mission Ridge addition and remodel

The Good Life , December 2005, article featuring Mission Ridge

“The Business of Design” Residential Architect professional focus group, June 2004

Tribeza June 2004, Lake Travis House

Residential Architect April 2004, various projects

Home by Design, Sarah Susanka; Spring 2004. Three of our homes are featured in this new book by the author of The Not So Big House.

AIA Austin Award of Merit 2002; Cooks Branch Lodge Addition

Southern Living Magazine  May 2001, Phillips House

Northshore on Lake Travis, 2001, Northshore 64 house - Parade of Homes

Home Magazine  December 2000, Cooks Branch

Austin American Statesman January 10, 1999 and June 11, 2000

Custom Home Magazine  May/June 1999, Sayers House

Texas Architect  September 1998, Sayers House

 
regarding résumés
 

We are a small firm, but we have the potential to grow. We may be looking for people to fill architect or intern positions, so please send a résumé to the address at the upper left corner of your screen or fax to 512.479.4175.