ELIZABETH ALFORD
Pollen Architecture & Design
SAY IT LOUD - TEXAS Exhibitor
Texas Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
It’s wonderful to design a space that thrills someone, or that makes their work more productive, or that helps to support a community. I’m also inspired by seeing buildings in person and I’m a ravenous collector of architecture books.
ELIZABETH ALFORD
Bio:
The great designer, Elizabeth Alford founded Pollen Architecture with Michael Young in 2008. Elizabeth’s work centers on creating engaging spaces that are carefully integrated into their surroundings. Elizabeth uses section, natural light and materiality to enrich the experience of a space. Elizabeth graduated from Wellesley College and holds a Masters Degree from Columbia University. Before returning to her native Austin, Elizabeth apprenticed with leading design firms in New York and abroad.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
When I was in elementary school my Mom fell through our living room ceiling, which prompted a home renovation. It was an exciting transformation. I also loved art classes and I was intrigued by cities and markets on childhood trips to Mexico.
What do you do?
I am an architectural designer and founding principal of Pollen Architecture & Design in Austin, Texas.
What excites you in the work you do?
I still get excited by the construction process. I love learning, and I continually find things that surprise me. I’m excited about new ideas and working with my team to come up with solutions that are unique to each place and time.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
It’s wonderful to design a space that thrills someone, or that makes their work more productive, or that helps to support a community. I’m also inspired by seeing buildings in person and I’m a ravenous collector of architecture books.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
My proudest accomplishment is the project in this submission. As designer and developer, we’ve contributed to the neighborhood, making a walkable environment that fits well. We’re proud of the design and detailing, especially of the concrete panels.
Featured Project Name:
Next Door Creative Studios
Featured Project Location:
Austin, TX
Featured Project Completion Date:
2019
Role in Featured Project:
Architectural designer, developer
Featured Project Description:
This compound provides studio space for our office and 14 other artists/creatives. The 4 buildings have different forms, but share a language of high ceilings, abundant natural light, and exposed structure. Metal box rib above is paired with custom concrete panels below. Buildings wrap the perimeter, making a planted streetscape and containing a courtyard. Plants, overhangs and shades at the street reference nearby houses. It won 4 stars from Austin Energy and AIA Award for Sustainability.
