What Lake Flato’s Architecture Project Is All About
Lake Flato believes in creating environments that enrich communities and nurture life. Their work isn’t just about buildings—it’s about crafting spaces that spark curiosity, belonging, and joy. From K–12 schools to public libraries, their projects redefine what it means to be a civic hub. Take the Cedar Park Public Library, for example, spotlighted by Bloomberg as part of the next generation of libraries transforming community engagement. Or the Point Dume Residence featured in The New York Times, showcasing their signature blend of thoughtful design and environmental harmony.
Main Benefits and Key Highlights
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes Lake Flato stand out:
- Northwest Regional Office expansion in Portland, growing their footprint.
- San Antonio Office achieved WELL Platinum Certification, a top wellness standard.
- Hotel Saint Augustine earned the 2025 Michelin Key, the only Texas hotel recognized worldwide for exceptional stays.
- Fall Creek Ranch received an AIA Architecture Award, highlighting excellence in design.
- The Holdsworth Center offers world-class leadership development for Texas public educators in a nature-based setting.
- Certified as a B Corporation, balancing financial success with environmental and social impact.
- B Corp score of 104.9, reflecting strong commitment to sustainability and climate action.
Community and Craft: The New Website & Brand
Lake Flato recently launched a new website and brand that really emphasize the importance of community and craft coming together. It’s about creating something larger than just a building—a legacy that’s built to last for the next 40 years and beyond. This fresh look and feel captures their dedication to thoughtful design and sustainable practices, inviting visitors to explore their projects and philosophy in a more engaging way.
Notes from the Field: A Journal of Ideas and Inspiration
Introducing the “Notes from the Field” journal—a vibrant collection of essays, interviews, fiction, poetry, and art. This journal isn’t your typical architectural digest; it’s a creative space where ideas flow freely, reflecting the firm’s deep connection to culture, environment, and community. It’s a way to share stories that inspire and provoke thought, all while staying true to the firm’s mission of enriching life through design.
Leadership in Sustainable and Environmental Design
Lake Flato is among just a handful of leading American architecture firms certified as a B Corporation. This certification highlights their commitment to balancing financial success with positive environmental and social impact. Their projects consistently embrace sustainable design principles, environmentalism, and climate action—making them a true leader in the architecture and planning industry. Their work proves that great design and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – through WELL Platinum Certification and wellness-focused spaces.
- SDG 4: Quality Education – leadership development at the Holdsworth Center and inspiring K–12 projects.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – redefining civic hubs like libraries and community spaces.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – sustainable design and environmental stewardship.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – commitment to environmental design and reducing carbon footprint.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – integrating nature-based settings in projects like Fall Creek Ranch.
Legacy and Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Lake Flato’s vision is clear: to continue crafting spaces that don’t just serve a purpose but enrich lives and communities for generations. Their dedication to sustainability, community engagement, and innovative design sets a powerful example in the architecture world. With a legacy built on care, craft, and environmental responsibility, they’re shaping a future where architecture truly nurtures life.
