HOK opened an office in Austin in 2022, with longtime Austinite Vanessa Rabe coming on board as practice leader. In this interview, Rabe discusses her aspirations for designing in and for the city she loves—and shares her favorite barbecue and taco spots.
Can you tell us about the path you took to get to Austin?
I’m a native Texan but moved around a lot as a kid and, in the process, discovered that I preferred to live in warm-weather climates. In the late 90s, I applied to architecture programs across the South and fell in love with Austin. I went to UT Austin for my undergrad degree in architecture and have been in Austin ever since. While I was still in school, I got a job at a Texas-based firm that was working on the UT Austin campus. I have had the pleasure of working on many UT Austin campus projects since then and while I’ve had opportunities to move to other cities, I haven’t wanted to leave Austin. It’s home and I’m excited to have this opportunity to continue to influence my city’s architecture.
Why did you choose to join HOK?
I was drawn to a firm where I could keep design at the forefront while leading the business side. I previously had a very positive experience partnering with an HOK team for three months to pursue a project, and I was impressed by their collaborative approach.
What are your aspirations for the office?
The Austin studio
There’s a misconception that we are only suited for designing large projects. But we are a very diverse firm—especially from a size perspective—and can really excel in everything from small office fit-outs to large-scale projects. Regardless of project size, we want to contribute to the future of Austin in every way we can and bring the high-quality design that HOK is known for to create authentic spaces for our clients in Austin.
What’s your vision for the studio culture?
The Austin studio
It’s important to us to hire people that are comfortable learning and mentoring. A lot of learning happens when you surround yourself with diverse people with different skills and market expertise. We currently have a great group of collaborators who genuinely enjoy being around each other. In our open office environment, we overhear each other’s discussions, ask questions and contribute to solutions. Our office design helps foster that work environment we want to embody.
Can you describe the Capitol Complex Phase II project and its potential impact on Austin?
Artist’s rendering
This is such an exciting project for HOK to contribute to. We’re designing two new state office buildings, an extension of the pedestrian mall and underground parking on 15th Street between Lavaca Street and Congress Avenue. Historically, downtown Austin, the Capitol and the UT campus felt like separate zones. The first phase of the project started near UT and extended halfway down the mall. Now, our project at Phase II will complete the connection of the south side of the mall with the Capitol. It’s exciting to be part of a project that enhances the connectivity from Lady Bird Lake north up to the campus.
Before we wrap up, we have to ask about your favorite places to get barbecue and tacos in Austin?
For me, barbecue would be Stiles Switch. For tacos, it would be De Nada, which is close to the office.
What’s the neighborhood around the office like?
There are so many different things within a five-minute walk. I love how you can go to a local artist’s shop, visit a brewery or rent a camper van.