Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Hastings.
Hi Katie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Born and raised in New Orleans, I developed an appreciation for the beautiful homes in the Garden District and the buildings with courtyards in the French Quarter. I was both creative and good at math, so architecture seemed like a good fit. I was honored to be accepted into The University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture’s undergrad program, and thrilled to move to Austin (though I get back to New Orleans as often as I can!). Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture in 2003, my career began in commercial interior architecture and interior design, working for award-winning firms in both Austin, TX and Seattle, WA. When my husband, daughter and I returned to Austin, TX in 2011, I felt drawn towards residential work and quickly found a passion for working directly with homeowners to create homes and spaces that worked better for their needs. Shortly after my son was born in 2013, I started my own practice, Katie Hastings Design, doing both residential architecture and interior design. Over the years, I found myself busy enough with architectural work so in 2023, I decided to phase out the interior design part of my business and rebranded as Katie Hastings Architecture, focusing on residential architectural projects of all types and sizes. I feel lucky to have found a profession that I enjoy so thoroughly, getting to flex my creative muscle and work with amazing people, while staying flexible and available for my family.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has been a relatively smooth road. Since I began working for myself, I’ve been lucky to stay consistently busy and have had some great clients along the way. The biggest hurdle in my professional life was to become a licensed architect. The process is pretty grueling, but it enabled me to be able to work for myself which is invaluable and so fulfilling.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I am a sole-practitioner licensed architect providing a full range of architectural services for residential projects of all types and sizes in and around Austin, TX.
I typically begin by discussing the overall project goals with a client, and if needed can help determine the feasibility of a project on a certain property, whether it is an addition/remodel or a new build. I can then take a project from schematic design through the development of drawings for pricing, permitting, and construction. During construction, I can also act as the liaison between the client and the builder to see the project through construction successfully.
I have an appreciation for many different styles of architecture, but my favorite projects incorporate both modern architectural details and styling with more classic elements to create warm, interesting spaces to enjoy from both the interior and the exterior.
I pride myself on being a good listener, realizing the importance of hearing a client’s needs and coming up with solutions that are both functional and beautiful. I also realize the importance of strong relationships and good communication between the owner, architect, builder, and other consultants to achieve a successful project. And natural light is never a bad idea!
I am very proud to share that a home that I designed has been selected as the House Beautiful Whole Home for 2025! It will be completed and launched in October.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I define success by having happy clients who feel that I have their best interests in mind and provide them great service and great design. I am lucky to get most of my business from referrals from past clients, friends, and builders and other consultants I’ve worked with, which is the highest compliment I can receive and makes me proud of what I do. I also believe success is having good work-life balance.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://katiehastings.com
- Instagram: @katiehastingsarchitecture
Image Credits
Jake Holt Photography
Avery Nicole Photography
Diving Starlings
