workshop

OUR PHILOSOPHY

Design is all around us—in the objects we use and the spaces we inhabit. This constant interaction with the built environment has a consequential impact on our quality of life, placing a shared responsibility on architects, clients, and communities to pursue design solutions that enhance human health, experience, and productivity. We bring a collaborative spirit to all we do, beginning by listening to our clients’ vision and goals, and approaching each challenge with curiosity and vigor. Through thoughtful analysis, an emphasis on collaboration, and a problem-solving mindset, we strive to unlock the latent potential of every site, project, or idea—delivering lasting value for our clients without compromising on functional, concept-informed design.

WHO WE ARE

Runa Workshop is a sharp-minded, energetic architecture and interior design practice founded in 2009. We are a workshop in every sense of the word - a collaborative team where technical rigor, conceptual clarity, and the client goals carry equal weight throughout the design process. Our workshop embraces the evolving needs of our clients and community, with thoughtfully considered and typologically diverse projects ranging from commercial office, retail, performing arts, workplace, single-family, multi-family, and mixed-use. Whether navigating challenging zoning regulations, complex programs, or a budget-conscious proforma, we believe design thrives with challenges and constraints, not in spite of them.

“Runa” means “people” in Quechua—the native language of the Incas. A workshop is a place for creativity, exploration, and the refinement of craft. Together, Runa Workshop means “people exchanging ideas.” This commitment to collaboration, innovation, and technical mastery empowers us to deliver lasting, forward-thinking design solutions for our clients.

RUNA
[roo-nuh] - noun

man, people, humanity

Origin:
Quechua (Native language of the Incas)

WORKSHOP
[wurk-shop] - noun

1. a period of discussion and practical work on a particular subject, in which a group of people share their knowledge and experience

2. a room or building in which things are made or repaired using tools or machines

Runa Workshop = people exchanging ideas

OUR TEAM

Aaron Vollmer, RA
Founding Principal

Aaron is involved in all aspects of Runa Workshop, bringing a balance of design talent, technical knowledge, & communication skills that are critical to project success. On a daily basis, he is fostering our relationships within the community & leading the business aspects of the firm. Aaron has an innate understanding of the construction process, making him a valuable mentor. Through his many years of practice he has established a reputation for his thoughtful, collaborative and customer-centric approach to architecture.

Simon McGown, AIA
Studio Director

After earning his M.Arch. from Columbia University, Simon began his career at world-renowned architecture firm Morphosis. From there he went on to start his own firm in Harlem, New York, where he led with a client-centric approach. Aligned with our ethos, Simon believes in a highly collaborative approach to design & management, leading with empathy & candor. As Studio Director, he continually strengthens our operations & client relationships, allowing us to expand our practice in Austin & beyond.

Cathrine Tait, RA
Senior Project Architect

Over the course of her 15+ year career, Cathrine has led projects ranging in scale & spanning a variety of project types - particularly mixed use, workplace, & retail. In her previous role, Cathrine served on an Equity by Design council, showing tremendous leadership abilities through her involvement and dedication to emerging professionals & their career trajectories. Cathrine prides herself on the ability to synthesize project goals into a functional program & ensuring that client goals & requirements are met at every milestone.