MacInnis Kraus // Studio Luck

Tell us about your PRP firm. Where are you working?

I'm working at Studio Luck here in Austin. It's a small studio of seven full-time employees plus me.

What is currently on your desk? What are you working on?

On my desk, I've got some of my favorite books from our studio library - Non-Referential Architecture, Rural Studio: Samuel Mockbee and an Architecture of Decency, a collection of work from MORQ, and Constructing in Massive Stone Today from Gilles Perraudin. Yesterday I picked up a few books about the life and work of Dom Hans van der Laan which have made welcome additions. I also have some stone samples, trace, straight edge, scale, and a couple of pieces of my pottery. Right now I'm working on a boutique hotel in Austin. I've been focusing most of my efforts on a breezeway that overlooks the Colorado River and the interior courtyard for hotel guests.

Describe the firm culture? The office atmosphere?

In terms of Architecture, Studio Luck is interested in the timelessness of certain materials, particularly stone and compressed earth blocks. Projects deal with the phenomenology of light and sound, and creating a memorable and engaging experience for users is paramount. Studio Luck is tight-knit and down-to-earth. Despite the demanding schedules of projects, there's always time to discuss relevant design strategies and philosophies. Not even small items pass through unless they've been thoughtfully and intentionally considered. Discussions often delve into very abstract and esoteric spaces which is a big plus for me. And there's an office pup!

What is the first thing you'll tell your classmates upon your return to UT?

I'll tell them I had a wonderful and rewarding experience. I think PRP is a great chance to either confirm or re-evaluate your assumptions about a career in Architecture. To those considering the program-- it's worth delving into extremes. Throughout school, I've developed a sense that I would enjoy being at a small studio that is very focused on the intangible elements of architectural space. So for PRP, that's what I tried to find, and I now have confirmation that it's the right environment for me. Either find a studio that is the epitome of what you think you might enjoy, or find the complete opposite.

As you’re finishing up the week, what are your plans for this weekend?

I'm heading to Southern Illinois for the bachelor party of one of my roommates from undergrad!