Furman + Keil Architects: Company Profile

Background

Overview

Furman + Keil Architects (FKA) is a full-service design studio based in Austin, Texas, established in 1995 by founding principal Gary Furman. The firm is dedicated to creating enriched environments that enhance the lives of individuals and communities. FKA's work seeks a fresh balance between local traditions and innovative design, striving to create timeless, sustainable buildings grounded in a strong sense of place.

Mission and Vision

FKA's mission is to provide unique architectural solutions that foster meaningful connections between people and their surroundings. The firm emphasizes collaboration, communication, and teamwork to unlock the hidden potential of every project, ensuring that each design reflects the client's unique vision and the project's context.

Primary Area of Focus

The firm's primary focus is on custom residential design, with an expanding portfolio that includes small-scale commercial projects, particularly in the hospitality sector. FKA is known for integrating local traditions and craftsmanship into their architectural designs, creating spaces that reflect the unique character of the region.

Industry Significance

FKA has been recognized locally, regionally, and nationally for its thoughtfulness and attention to detail. In 2010, the firm received AIA Austin’s Firm Achievement Award, the highest honor that AIA Austin can bestow on an architecture firm for outstanding contributions to the community, profession, and the creation of distinguished architecture.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

FKA aims to create timeless, sustainable buildings that are grounded in a strong sense of place and built to be enjoyed by clients for generations. The firm emphasizes collaboration and communication to ensure that each project reflects the unique vision and context of the client.

Specific Areas of Specialization

The firm specializes in custom residential design and has expanded its scope to include small-scale commercial projects, particularly in the hospitality sector. FKA is known for integrating local traditions and craftsmanship into their architectural designs, creating spaces that reflect the unique character of the region.

Key Technologies Utilized

While specific technologies are not detailed in the available sources, FKA's commitment to sustainable design suggests the use of environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient building practices.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

FKA primarily serves the Austin, Texas area, focusing on residential and small-scale commercial projects that integrate local traditions and craftsmanship. The firm's work is deeply rooted in the community, reflecting a strong connection to the local environment and culture.

Financials and Funding

Specific financial details, including total funds raised, recent funding rounds, notable investors, and intended utilization of capital, are not publicly disclosed for Furman + Keil Architects.

Pipeline Development

FKA's recent projects include:

• Roost Pavilion: A 928-square-foot timber pavilion situated in Austin’s wetlands, designed with sustainability in mind to promote a connection with nature.

• Critter Creek Residence: A modern multi-acre property that blends old and new, utilizing reclaimed and natural materials to create a harmonious living space.

• Buckeye Residence: A design that integrates house and landscape, capturing views and breezes, and connecting the indoors with the outdoors using materials like West Texas fieldstone and Douglas fir.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

While specific proprietary technologies are not detailed in the available sources, FKA's commitment to sustainable design suggests the use of environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient building practices.

Significant Scientific Methods

FKA employs a collaborative design process that values the ideas and opinions of clients, colleagues, consultants, and co-workers. This approach ensures that every project's unique vision and context are respected and integrated into the final design.

Leadership Team

Gary Furman, FAIA, LEED AP | Founder

Gary Furman is a native Texan and founding principal of Furman + Keil Architects. He studied architecture at the University of Texas at Austin, graduating with high honors. Gary has been involved in various community initiatives, including designing low-income, sustainable housing and mentoring students. In 2011, he was honored as a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects.

Philip Keil, AIA | Principal

Philip Keil joined Gary Furman Architects in 2000 and became a partner in 2005, forming Furman + Keil Architects. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the University of Michigan and a Master of Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin. Philip is active in the Austin community, serving on the Board of Directors for the Sustainable Food Center and as a member of the American Institute of Architects. In 2016, he received the John V. Nyfeler, FAIA Community Service Award.

Troy Miller | Principal

Troy Miller has nearly 20 years of architectural experience, including residential, hospitality, planning, development, historic preservation, and construction consulting. He contributes strong design sensibilities and a focus on materiality and detailing to the firm's projects. Outside the office, Troy enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors with his family.

Ann Marie McCollum | Senior Associate

Ann Marie McCollum holds a Master's in Architecture from the University of South Florida. She enjoys the critical thinking aspects of architecture that manifest through design and problem-solving. Ann Marie moved to Austin to enjoy the city's food, architecture, parks, and unique culture. In her free time, she loves being with her family, camping, and playing spikeball.

Ginny Adkins | Office Manager

Ginny Adkins is a native Austinite with over 20 years of experience in accounting and office management for award-winning Austin architecture firms. She is known for her detailed and efficient approach to accounting and enjoys fostering a positive, supportive environment as office and property manager. Outside of work, Ginny enjoys spending time with her family, reading, gardening, and volunteering for her children's organizations.

Maanasa Nathan, LEED Green Associate, CPHT, NOMA

Maanasa Nathan is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, holding a Bachelor of Architecture and a Bachelor of Arts from the Plan II Liberal Arts Honors Program. She values an interdisciplinary approach to design that integrates research, performance, and creative problem-solving. As an Austin native, Maanasa aims to serve the community that inspired her to pursue a career in design. In her free time, she enjoys exploring Austin’s food scene, hiking, and DIY projects.

Alex Gagle

Alex Gagle holds a Master's in Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin, where he developed an interest in alternative perspectives of the built environment. Outside the office, Alex enjoys skating, attending local shows, and gaming.

Royal Petrie

Royal Petrie earned a Bachelor's in Environmental Design from Texas A&M University and a Master's in Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin. He grew up in the scenic hill country of Boerne, Texas, and has a keen interest in the diverse spatial conditions of architecture. In his free time, Royal enjoys woodworking projects, reading, and running.

Riley Kerns

Riley Kerns is from Houston and moved to Austin to study architecture at the University of Texas, where she is currently in her fifth year of the Bachelor of Architecture program. She joined FKA in June 2025 through the UT School of Architecture’s Professional Residency Program to explore her interest in residential design. Outside the office, Riley enjoys spending time with her puppy, running the Austin trails, and trying new restaurants around the city.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The architectural industry in Austin, Texas, is characterized by a diverse range of firms specializing in residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. The market is competitive, with firms striving to integrate sustainable design practices and innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of clients.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the Austin architectural market include several established firms that also focus on integrating local culture and sustainability into their designs. These competitors operate across residential and commercial sectors, emphasizing innovative, sustainable, and community-focused architectural solutions.