Business Details
33 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design Services in Brattleboro, VT
Austin Design is a worker-owned architecture firm founded in 1993 by Bill Austin, now led by a team of experienced professionals committed to transforming client visions into meaningful spaces. Our collaborative approach combines over 35 years of collective expertise in residential, commercial, and community projects with a focus on sustainable design and site-responsive solutions. We specialize in multi-family affordable housing, public sector renovations, and energy-efficient buildings, leveraging diverse backgrounds in environmental science, construction, and passive house consulting. Our team prioritizes craftsmanship, natural materials, and functional aesthetics while maintaining a deep commitment to community impact and client satisfaction.With decades of experience in both design and project management, we deliver innovative solutions that align timeless building traditions with modern technologies. Our services span commercial breweries, senior housing, single-family residences, and civic spaces, reflecting our dedication to creating spaces that enhance lives and environments. As a cooperative, we emphasize transparency, shared ownership, and ethical practices in every project we undertake.
Services
Commercial Projects
Community Projects
Single-Family Homes
Multi-Family Housing
Sustainable Design
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of experience in multi-family housing and public sector design.
- Our worker-owned cooperative model ensures ethical, client-focused decision-making.
- Specialized expertise in sustainable and energy-efficient building solutions.
- Proven track record in complex renovations and site-responsive architecture.
- Team includes certified Passive House consultants and construction experts.
Services
Commercial Projects
We design functional, innovative commercial spaces tailored to client needs. Our expertise includes breweries, office buildings, and retail environments, combining aesthetic appeal with operational efficiency. Projects like Cold Harbor Brewing Co. and The Alchemist demonstrate our ability to create dynamic spaces that enhance business operations while maintaining environmental responsibility.
Community Projects
Our community-focused designs prioritize accessibility and social impact. We specialize in civic buildings, bus shelters, and religious spaces that foster connection and serve diverse populations. The Great River Terrace Bus Shelter and Blessed Sacrament Parish Hall exemplify our commitment to creating inclusive, functional public environments that strengthen local communities.
Single-Family Homes
We craft custom single-family residences that balance modern aesthetics with practical living needs. From contemporary designs like Countryside Contemporary to traditional styles like Hilltown Craftsman, our homes integrate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems while reflecting each client's unique vision and lifestyle requirements.
Multi-Family Housing
Our multi-family solutions focus on affordable, sustainable living spaces that prioritize comfort and community. Projects like Wisdom Way Solar Village and Sanderson Place Senior Housing showcase our ability to create energy-efficient complexes with shared amenities, addressing diverse housing needs while maintaining architectural integrity and environmental responsibility.
Sustainable Design
We integrate eco-conscious practices into every project, specializing in energy-efficient systems and passive house principles. Our sustainable approach reduces environmental impact while lowering long-term operational costs, as demonstrated in projects like Mocha Joes Roasting Co. and Habitat for Humanity developments that prioritize resource efficiency and climate resilience.
People
Tom Chalmers
Architect
35+ years designing multi-family housing and public projects. Expert in sustainable renovations and accessibility upgrades. Combines technical knowledge with hands-on experience managing farm operations.
Patrick Kitzmiller
Architect
Brings construction expertise and modern design sensibilities. Focuses on simple material use for functional beauty. Balances creative problem-solving with practical implementation in residential and commercial projects.
Peter Webster
Designer/Project Manager
15-year veteran in environmental design. Specializes in social space planning and natural material integration. Passionate about site-specific solutions that enhance user experience through layered architectural elements.
Bryan Louisell
Designer/Project Manager
20-year design professional with expertise in residential and industrial projects. Known for timely delivery and innovative solutions. Combines technical precision with creative vision for client-focused outcomes.
Raphael Rosner
Designer/Project Manager
25+ years creating site-responsive architecture. Merges traditional building methods with modern technology. Focuses on contextual harmony and long-term sustainability in both residential and commercial applications.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in commercial, residential, and community projects including breweries, housing developments, and civic spaces with a focus on sustainable design.
Are you a certified green architecture firm?
While not formally certified, we integrate sustainable practices in all projects, including energy-efficient systems and passive house principles for reduced environmental impact.
How does your cooperative business model work?
As a worker-owned cooperative, our team shares ownership and decision-making responsibilities, ensuring ethical practices and client-focused priorities in every project.
What areas do you serve?
Primarily based in Brattleboro, VT, we serve clients across Vermont and neighboring regions including Greenfield and Northampton, MA.
Can you handle complex renovation projects?
Yes, our team has extensive experience with renovations including historic preservation, accessibility upgrades, and energy-efficient retrofits for both residential and commercial properties.
How do you approach project timelines and budgets?
We prioritize transparent communication and proven project management techniques to deliver work on time and within budget while maintaining design integrity and quality standards.
