THOUGHTBARN

THOUGHTBARN is a collaborative architecture studio based in Austin, TX, led by directors Robert Gay and Lucy Begg. Founded in 2007, the practice has pursued an agenda of ambitious and diverse projects - buildings and public spaces, installations and interiors - which share in common an inventive materiality, an economy of means and an environmental ethic. The name is suggestive of the way in which the practice works, combining strong conceptual ideas with a research-oriented mindset and a hands-on approach to the construction process.  We have a special interest in the neighborhood scale, and many of our projects are infill or adaptive re-use typologies that imaginatively address the particular nuances of place and social context.

The practice has experimented with a wide range of working models in addition to playing a traditional architect role, including architect-led design/build, public art design and construction, digital fabrication consulting, and joint ventures, making them an exceptional partner on projects where collaboration is key. 

Thoughtbarn’s work has been recognized by the AIA Austin, Architects Newspaper, AIA National Chapter, SXSW Eco Places by Design, Preservation Austin, Texas Architect, Dwell, Arch Daily, Americans for the Arts and The Architects Journal.