Bio:
 The great designer, Sarah Johnson grew up in West Texas and studied at Texas Tech University and The University of Texas where she received degrees in Architecture and Civil Engineering. Johnson believes that architecture is most powerful when it directly and simply responds to the needs of the client and the site, which is unique to every project. Johnson was promoted to Principal Architect at MF Architecture in 2018, becoming one of the youngest female Principals of a medium firm in Austin.

How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I became interested in this profession as I was looking into career options where I could utilize both my creative interests and detail oriented nature to solve problems. My interest solidified through travel and exposure to the process of design.

What do you do?
I am actively involved in design and development for custom residential and small commercial projects as a Principal Architect. I oversee operations and staffing for multiple projects within our office and manage projects directly.

What excites you in the work you do?
I’m most excited at the opportunity to create unique solutions to answer a set of new questions/constraints for each project. I take seriously the impact I have on people’s daily lives and enjoy working directly with them to compose their environment.

Who or what inspires you professionally?
I am inspired by others who contribute to the process of design & construction (consultants, contractors, tradespeople, clients). There is much to consider and it is inspiring to see others bring their unique perspectives and skills to the process.
 
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
I am most proud of my contribution to growing a small/young firm. The challenges and opportunities, both in design and management, have given me such respect for all those who strive to craft our built environment.

Featured Project Name: 
Interlock House
 
Featured Project Location: 
Austin, Texas
 
Featured Project Completion Date: 
October 2016

Role in Featured Project: 
Design Architect and Project Manager
 
Featured Project Description:
Extreme site constraints and a desire to maintain the character of the existing home, drove the design of this remodel/addition to a small 1950’s home. New roof geometry and clerestory windows are key components of the design, allowing natural light to reach the full depth of each space in nuanced ways. The original gable structure was kept intact and articulated as a crisp white box to juxtapose the wood-lined, glass box additions.

Photography Credit:
Charles Davis Smith