Workshop No. 5 is a boutique architecture and design studio rooted in Austin, Texas, founded on an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and the belief that great design begins with deep listening.
We are a woman-owned firm with an all-women team, based in North Austin. We design new homes, remodels and additions, adaptive reuse, commercial spaces, and interiors across Austin — recognized on Austin Home’s Best Architects list five years running (2022–2026), Best of Houzz 2018–2023, and with an AIA Austin Design Award.
The studio works across residential, multifamily, commercial, hospitality, and civic projects — bringing the same intentionality and care to every scale. Whether designing a family home, a gathering space, or a community building, Workshop No. 5 approaches each project as an opportunity to create something that is both beautiful and enduring. Inspired by real-life needs, natural materials, and a respect for place, the work is rooted in the particular — the specific site, the specific family, the specific culture — while reaching for something timeless.
Every project is shaped by genuine collaboration. Workshop No. 5 takes the time to understand not just what clients need today, but how they live, what they carry with them, and what they hope to pass on. That understanding drives design decisions that go beyond aesthetics to create spaces that truly exceed expectations — spaces that feel inevitable, as though they could not have been designed any other way.
As a woman-owned and minority-owned practice, Workshop No. 5 brings a perspective that is both personal and expansive. The studio is dedicated to supporting and elevating women in architecture — serving as a guiding light for the next generation of designers who are ready to break barriers, challenge norms, and claim their rightful place at the table of leadership in design.
When it comes to leading Workshop No.5 in designing beautiful and functional spaces, Vani crafts inspiration from experiences, and is always seeking new places to explore. Her favorite way to make memories is by visiting new restaurants and community spaces, whether she’s keeping it local or traveling internationally! When she’s not designing community spaces to bring together people from all walks of life, Vani stays grounded by lovingly preparing delicious home-cooked meals with her family.
Kat has a knack for visualizing spaces that sing with both style and functionality. A devoted enthusiast of space and sound, Kat has explored all the live music venues in Austin, and is always looking to discover new artists. She loves the way design can enrich people’s wellbeing and inner lives, and her favorite projects involve creating unique hobby spaces where people can dedicate time to their crafts or favorite activities.
Aurora brings a vibrant energy to our marketing team, drawing on her experience as a radio DJ for Austin’s own KHFI. Her passion for food and baking adds a delicious twist to her creative approach. Her past life on the airwaves and love for culinary arts make her a dynamic and innovative force in the world of marketing.