Business Details
35 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design in Austin
Mell Lawrence Architects is a collaborative design practice founded in 1991 that prioritizes thoughtful, human-centered architecture. Our approach integrates clients' lifestyles with principles of light, art, and sustainability, creating spaces that harmonize indoor and outdoor environments. With over 30 years of experience, we specialize in residential and small commercial projects nationwide, emphasizing natural materials, clean lines, and functional elegance. Our team of licensed architects and designers has earned 20+ national and state design awards, including AIA Austin Firm of the Year. We maintain a commitment to transparency, client collaboration, and craftsmanship through partnerships with skilled artisans.Our work has been featured in 50+ publications, including Architectural Record and Metropolitan Home. Principal Mell Lawrence, a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, brings decades of expertise in merging traditional sensibilities with contemporary simplicity. Hector Martell, a LEED AP-certified architect, leads modern design initiatives while maintaining focus on building systems integration. Clare van Montfrans contributes expertise in public space design and urban connectivity. The firm's portfolio spans new homes, renovations, restaurants, and public spaces, all reflecting our dedication to contextual, life-enhancing architecture.
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Architecture
Interior Design
Sustainable Design
Outdoor Spaces
Custom Furniture
Public Projects
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in residential and commercial architecture
- Our team includes AIA Fellows and LEED-certified sustainability experts
- We maintain a 98% client retention rate through personalized collaboration
- Our designs have won 20+ national and state-level design awards
- We offer full-service solutions from concept to construction completion
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects
- LEED AP
What people say
Exceptional creativity
Excellent communication
Award-winning results
Thoughtful designs
Professional team
Services
Residential Architecture
We create custom residential spaces that reflect clients' lifestyles and environmental context. Our approach combines modern aesthetics with functional requirements, emphasizing natural light integration and sustainable materials. Projects range from new constructions to complex renovations, all maintaining strict adherence to client vision and budget parameters.
Sustainable Design
Our LEED-certified professionals implement energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials throughout all project phases. This service focuses on minimizing environmental impact while maximizing long-term cost savings through passive solar design, rainwater harvesting, and locally sourced material selection.
Commercial Architecture
We design commercial environments that enhance brand identity and operational efficiency. Our portfolio includes restaurants, retail spaces, and office buildings that prioritize both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality while meeting all regulatory requirements and accessibility standards.
Interior Design
Our interior design service extends architectural principles to interior environments, creating cohesive spaces that optimize flow and usability. We specialize in custom furniture design, material selection, and integrating technology systems while maintaining alignment with the building's overall architectural language.
Public Projects
We develop civic and public spaces that foster community engagement while maintaining aesthetic excellence. This service includes parks, pavilions, and cultural facilities designed with universal accessibility, durability, and environmental integration as primary considerations.
People
Mell Lawrence
Principal Architect
Licensed architect and AIA Fellow with 30+ years experience. Graduated from University of Texas at Austin. Recognized with 2001 AIA Austin Firm of the Year award and 2006 AIA College of Fellows induction. Specializes in merging traditional and contemporary design principles.
Hector Martell
Architect
LEED AP-certified architect with Master of Architecture from UC Berkeley. Specializes in modern design and building systems integration. Licensed in Texas. Focuses on sustainable solutions that balance innovation with practical construction methods.
Clare van Montfrans
Architect
Graduated from University of Texas at Austin with Master in Architecture. Former experience at VMDO Architects and dwg. Landscape Architects. Specializes in public space design and urban connectivity solutions. Advocates for walkable urban environments.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We create contextually appropriate designs blending modern principles with traditional elements. Our work emphasizes clean lines, natural materials, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions while respecting each project's unique requirements.
Do you work on both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we handle both residential and commercial projects. Our portfolio includes homes, restaurants, retail spaces, offices, and public environments, all designed with the same attention to detail and functionality.
How do you approach sustainable design?
Sustainability is integral to our process. We incorporate energy-efficient systems, passive solar design, rainwater harvesting, and locally sourced materials to create environmentally responsible buildings that reduce long-term operating costs.
Can you handle renovation projects?
We specialize in renovations that preserve architectural character while modernizing functionality. Recent projects include historic home updates and commercial space transformations that maintain original design intent.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Austin, we work throughout Texas Hill Country, Central Texas, and accept national projects. Our team has completed award-winning designs in multiple states, adapting to diverse environmental and cultural contexts.
How do you ensure client satisfaction?
We maintain open communication through regular meetings and progress updates. Our collaborative approach involves clients in key decisions while leveraging our expertise to guide successful project outcomes.
