We had such a great experience working with Austin and his partner, Joaquin, on a home addition project in the Bay Area. We were looking to add about 300 square feet to our old (early 1940s) 2/1 house in the form of a small bedroom, bathroom and family room... ideally, we wanted to go out (not up) and still retain some of our backyard, which isn't huge. Quite the feat, but Austin and Joaquin worked diligently with us to come up with designs that 1) would pass code, 2) made sense for our family, and 3) would likely be within budget, once we hired a contractor. The initial interview process was lengthy, enlightening and quite honestly, as close to therapy as my husband and I had each ever come. Talking through the "why" of such an extensive project helped us think about our long-term goals for the project and for our family in general. My husband has worked in construction in the past and deeply cares about the details (and the measurements!). Austin and Joaquin went back and forth with him on many details for months. Solving problems with them was totally doable because they both communicate often and well. Austin is very amiable and I imagine he communicates well with most people, regardless of personality type... a great skill to have as an architect, where people are spending a lot of money and stakes are high. We chose a design that we loved, found our contractor and will be starting the actual construction in a month. We had big goals for a relatively small space, an older house, and an area of the country with strict legal codes (don't get me started on city building departments!); and we are so satisfied with what we came up with. I'll upload pictures when the project is over, but I have no doubt that Austin will stay with us if/when any issues arise with the construction component of the project. 10/10 recommend Austin, his partners and 3 Lights Design for any project you may have. They are truly wonderful and we are so happy with their work! read more

Austin and his team are like family. We approached Austin when we purchased our home, and were immediately struck by his warmth, his sincerity, and his exceedingly thoughtful and mindful approach to our renovation journey. Our goal was to convert our 1750 square home into 3500 square feet, lifting the home 4 ft, converting the basement into living space, and vaulting the ceilings upstairs. It was a massive project. Over the course of several years, we switched designs, changed thoughts, changed scope, changed budget, and through it all, Austin was calm, level-headed and supportive, always providing revised drawings and offering new ideas and approaches. We finally finalized our plans right before the pandemic and construction was suspended for a year. But once we began construction, Austin worked with our contractor to triage a number of issues that arose. Our contractor was quite prickly, and Austin managed to build a strong relationship with them, and even helped to resolve issues and conflicts between us and the contractor--no small feat given our contractor's temper! And now our home is complete. It is truly magnificent, and we get compliments constantly on the design, the flow, and, most importantly for us, the movement of light through the home. Austin and his team took our vision and breathed so much life and light into it--in ways we could never have envisioned. And when he visited with us recently, I was brought to tears--I am so eternally grateful to him for being such a steadfast supporter, friend and advisor through what was (as are all renos of this scale) a incredibly stressful, draining, and emotional process. We are, in fact, so thrilled with the outcome and enjoyed working with Austin so much that we're looking to him to help us now convert our detached garage into an ADU for my mother. If at all you're considering Austin and 3 Lights Design, know that you cannot go wrong, and more likely than not, you'll be left with the results of your dreams and a friend for life in Austin. read more

Tl;dr: 3 Lights is awesome, and working with Austin was so much fun. He helped us bring our vision to reality, never rushed the process and made 110% sure we were making the right decision. He was also incredibly kind to our 85 lbs dog (who hated him for no reason at all FYI). My husband and I always wanted a 3/2, but ended up falling in love with a 3/1 in 2016. Our plan was hence to add a bathroom to it, and we finally got around to it in 2017. We got in touch with several architects to start kicking things off. We met a lot of people; some just kept talking over us, some told us the space we had for the bathroom was too tiny (it is not huge, but it is quite reasonable), and we were annoyed at the world and ready to give up when we met Austin. Our first meeting with him was fun; we had a great time explaining our vision, but he insisted on a full spectrum client intake (which we had never heard of before). Through said interview, Austin mentioned he would take the time to get to know us and assess what our real reasons were to remodel our home; he also mentioned would tell us if we were remodeling for the wrong reasons. Wut. Let me mention here that my husband and I are complete opposites: I am bubbly and outgoing, and he can barely tolerate other humans That said, while I was dubious, the interview turned out to be a HIT for both of us. Austin took an hour with my husband and I separately, asked pointed questions about the things that mattered to us, and really immersed himself into how we live as a family. That helped him assess what this bathroom really meant to us and how we would use it. He therefore gave design suggestions based around that. After we established that this remodel was the right move for us, he and his team got moving pretty fast; we had final plans within a few months (we were not the best at answering in a timely fashion ), and the bathroom was built soon after. It is now completed and it is efficient, spacious and gorgeous. Just perfect. Thanks Austin (and Tawni, another member of his team) for a wonderful experience! read more

See all

It was such a pleasure to work with Austin. He is knowledgeable, has a great sense of humor, is a good listener and communicator and an overall pleasure to work with. He was able to take our small laundry room renovation project and make it work in our hard-to-find-the-right-space house so that it didn't cost us an arm and a leg. He was great about suggesting contractors who could do the job and continued to follow up with me to the very end. He established a relationship with us that was so friendly and fun (Zoolander jokes abound) which made us feel like we were working with a trusted friend. I highly recommend him! read more

See all

It has been such a pleasure to work with Austin! As a contractor I have worked with many architects before but I have never met anyone so committed to work in such a deep and personal way with the client, contractor and the vision as whole. His commitment to serve the vision as a whole, while staying clear and strongly behind his values is quite refreshing. If that was not enough, another things that makes it such a joy to work with him is the fact that along side his experience he brings child like curiosity and willingness to look things from a new prospective and to constantly learn and expend. He believes that every single person that is involved in a project has something valuable to add, from the owner, to the contractor and every one in between, everyone has something to bring to the project and that it is essential for everyone to work together for creating and completing that project, from creating the vision to bringing to life. I wish all architects take that approach to their business. If you are looking for the right architect for you I think you can end that search now! read more

When my part of my back deck was destroyed when a tree fell on it, I was really upset. I didn't know at the time that the loss of my favorite part of my house could lead to an opportunity for something better, something different, and something more affordable than I'd originally thought. When Austin came out and looked at the house he asked a lot of questions and listened to all my concerns he suggested that I scale it back from the original deck so that I could so that I could save on materials, avoid the possibility of another tree falling on it, and, best of all, so I could see the river better. My old deck extended so far out it gave me a great view from the edge, but blocked out the river everywhere else. He also suggested are really beautiful way of making a railing that was sleek, safe, and didn't block the view. It was a real pleasure working with Austin. He is patient, well informed, and has great ideas. I highly recommend Austin Shaw. Sincerely, Therese Kells read more

I had more than an 'interesting experience' working with Austin - it was empowering. As he did a preliminary interview over the phone, I felt surprisingly comfortable when we met the next week. Despite two extensive remodels on this 100 year old Oakland bungalow, I had yet to work with an architect or professional designer. Within a short time we agreed to focus upon Austin's 'full-spectrum client intake'. It's a process but well-worth it. Austin communicates quite clearly; and because he is interested in listening to the client's needs and concerns, our time together helped me understand the next steps I wanted to make. It was not to remodel the basement. My idea was impractical but, more importantly, it would not enrich my quality of life. It was rather surprising how my predominant feeling was one of gratitude - and relief. The work with Austin was brief but so very helpful in pointing out the direction I need and want to go. The manner in which he quickly grasped the scope of the project, and my deep concerns, makes me very certain I could have trusted his judgment should 'we' have decided to go ahead and build it. read more

The space I found for my acupuncture practice was a clean slate. It required a buildout and I realized that I needed to find myself an architect. I could not have found a better architect, design consultant, and aesthetic artist than Austin HIll Shaw! Austin is not your average architect. Ok, I'm not sure what an average architect is, but my first meeting with Austin was magical. We spent over two hours talking about my business and my personal goals related to the space. I expected to sketch some walls and treatment tables. Instead, I wound up having one of the most profound conversations I have had in a long time. Austin has a depth of personal practice that you can feel when working with him. He really listened to my needs and concerns. I realized that he was listening to ME and not just the project, how much he could make, etc. He was there to support me and my business the way I could only hope that someone I hired to help me would. Our initial and subsequent talks and meetings were focused on how this space could serve my goals and allow me to express myself and my business fully. I can't say enough about how important this process was for me at the threshold (he named his business well) of opening a new space. Part of what Austin does is help you evaluate if the space and design are in alignment with your deepest values. This was an unexpected, but incredibly valuable asset to designing a space. He is resourceful and generous with his time and connections within the design, construction, and larger community to help get your project done. Austin is a creative thinker, a thoughtful designer, and a talented architect. Do yourself a favor and use him for your project. You can't do better. read more

I worked with Austin and his team to finally bring to light a renovation at my home in Lafayette. The whole team (Austin, Donatella and Luisa) where extremely personable, talented and really took the time to understand me and what I wanted to accomplish with the remodel. They worked fast and where almost below the low end of what they had quoted for the job! I would recommend them in a heartbeat, they where such a pleasure to work with and everything went incredibly smoothly. read more

I am chef and cook professionally out of my home, only my kitchen was divided into into two small rooms and had little counter space. I also wanted to cook more with my kids but the space felt totally cramped with anyone but me in there. A close friend recommended that I consult with the team at 3 Lights Design. Wow, what an experience! They listened carefully to all our need and wishes and even took us through this really cool interview process, which help me to look at the potential for my kitchen in a whole new way. They produced plans and 3D models that really helped us understand the space and be comfortable with it before we started building. Our new kitchen is amazing! It has everything I need as a chef and the flow of it works great. Now not only do I get to enjoy it professionally, but I also get the joy of cooking side by side with my kids, feeling creative instead of cramped. Thank you Austin, Donatella, and Luis! read more

The team at 3 Lights Design was a godsend while my partner and I were finishing up construction on a new restaurant. The contractor had made several unpleasing design choices and we desperately needed some guidance. Donatella, Luis, and Austin were all wonderful to work with and they provided practicable design suggestions. I especially appreciated that they provided immediately actionable vs longer-term solutions as well as ideas at various cost levels. This allowed us to take timely action that addressed our pain points, at a budget we were happy with, and allowed us to open on schedule. In addition, Austin provided an overall calming presence that was much appreciated during this rather stressful process. I'm not sure what we would have done without 3 Lights Design- thank you!! read more

Austin at 3 lights design is more than just an designer / architect -- he is a spiritual guide. I had plenty of worries going into my home remodel project, but after working with him for just an hour I felt much more grounded and connected to the purpose of the remodel, and was confident that he would help me make the choices that worked best for me and my family. As it turns out, the $200k+ attic bedroom I was envisioning was totally unnecessary, because Austin was able to help me realize that we could achieve the same goal by converting the garage -- for one tenth the cost! I felt seen, held, and cared for by Austin's gentle and nurturing approach. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I felt confident, and lucky to have found a designer/architect who is truly looking out for me and my family. read more

I have been a General Contractor in the Bay Area for 15 years. In all that time, I have never had such a positive experience working with a design firm. Their professionalism is matched only by their enthusiasm. Their dedication to their clients is exceptional, and in my case, led to a complete home run of a project! From Austin's emphasis on clear and effective communication to Luis' design skill and their combined problem-solving skills, you simply could not hire a better firm, in my experience. For a builder like me, who wanted a co-creative design environment, they provided not only a savings on the back-and-forth that typically leads to excessive billable hours with other firms, but an incredibly satisfying result. Here is a link to the site for the home: http://www.6209merriewood.com read more

We worked with Donattella and Austin on a 2 bedroom addition to our house, and we could not be happier with the result. They are very professional and good at what they do. Highly recommended! read more

It is with pleasure that I can recommend Austin Shaw as an architect and design consultant. I worked closely with Austin on the design and implementation of a retreat and wellness center in Los Cabos, Mexico, and feel that he made invaluable contributions to the eventual success of our project. Austin created the design and architectural plans for four of our buildings, as well as our pool and deck area, and associated structures. He also revised our existing fifth building in order to integrate it functionally and aesthetically with the rest of the retreat center. Austin offered both practical problem-solving acumen and nuanced creative insight to synthesize function and form in a harmonious whole. We get comments everyday from guests who notice and appreciate the unique touches and attention to detail that he infused into our resort's design. Austin proved himself committed to meeting important deadlines and delivering an exceptional product that balanced many competing variables. He has a talent for distilling the essence of an idea and using that as a cornerstone that informs and integrates with the project as a whole. I am confident that he would be a valued contributor to any creative endeavor that seeks to synthesize aesthetic sensibilities with practical realities. I would welcome the opportunity to work with Austin again on future projects - and, in fact, have done so when we added a second yoga studio to our facility - and recommend him without reservation. read more

Crazy that I haven't written a review of Austin's work yet. Wow! He designed my entire chiropractic office, from beginning to end, 2 years ago. It featured in his photos. I am so thankful for Austin for two reasons; one, his vision and ability to see the project all the way through to the end, and two, his incredible personality. I thought I was a great listener...well, I met my match. This guy spent SO MUCH TIME asking me questions about chiropractic, it's philosophy and what about it was important to me. He can take you through a tour of the office and tell you at least two or three aspects of every room that directly apply to those conversations. I felt very taken care of throughout the entire process. And what a process it was! There were so many challenges that this space provided for Austin. For example, mysterious leaks into the space, city zoning laws, and awkward placement of electrical and water structures. Austin kept a cool head through it all. He stayed positive and only focused on possible solutions. Finally, all you have to do is look at pictures of my office and I'm sure you'll be confident to at least give Austin a call and have a conversation about your project. read more

My name is Vivian Nguyen, am the owner of nails by Vivian. At the time I needed an architect I looked around for different estimates, and to make sure I could get a good feel for each ones character. Many architects that I contacted before Austin did not seem invested or professional. They would take long periods of time to contact me back and would add questionable charges. Then I found Austin on yelp, he had great reviews so I contacted him, he was very prompt on a response. He immediately came to my salon gave me a very straight forward and honest estimate and has been great to get the job done on an agreed deadline. He is very professional and I'm great full I found such a stand up honest person who truly invests himself with his clients. If you come across him when you need an architect look no more, he is your guy. read more

Austin and Luis are amazing!! They helped me with drawings for work that was already done without permits. Getting permits after the fact is not fun and very stressful. They got my illegal garage conversion issues with the City of San Pablo back on track, permits issued, and at a minimal cost!! I highly recommend them and will use them again without hesitation, great communication, fast response, professional, pleasant. Thank you guys for all your knowledge and assistance!! read more

Just yesterday I had the pleasure of visiting the NEW office of my favorite chiropractor at Village chiropractic in Montclair. OMG the place is a Zen oasis sent from heaven!!! Then I found out that Austin was the vision and designer behind this amazing space. I want him to design my home, my office, my life... Talent is an understatement. Visionary is more appropriate. read more

Austin's designs for my house were creative and innovative, and he was a joy to work with.

We had a great time consulting with Austin on our residential remodel. His process really helped us to better understand our project needs and helped enable my wife and I to be on the same page (= very important!!!) ... I know this isn't all that they do, but really good experience collaborating / listening read more

Austin and his team are AMAZING. Austin has an incredible method of getting to the root of your wants and needs and helps in bringing out the most soulful designs based on your innermost unconscious desires. And Donatella and Luis did an amazing job translating our vision into extraordinarily functional designs. We did a kitchen remodel with them. We have a historic Spanish style storybook home, with lots of intricate details and aesthetic touches. And my wife is a chef, and we have kids, and I'm an artist/photographer, so our individual needs were causing us to argue over our differing visions. But Austin was able to tap into the deeper desires and Donatella and Luis come up with several iterations of designs that incorporated our individual fantasies to create a cohesive, functional, and beautiful design to fit the existing architecture. Even if you don't end up working with Austin, just to meet and talk with him is an inspiration. read more

Austin and his team were great! They helped me with a 10,000 sf office TI in Oakland and the whole process went very smoothly. They took care of final programming, schematic drawings, permit submittals, and construction RFI's & revisions. I appreciated their high-quality drafting abilities, building code knowledge, punctual turnarounds, and sincere interest in the project. They are now one of my top go-to teams for architectural services. read more

I cannot recommend the 3 Lights Design team more. I worked with Austin and Luis and both were fantastic! I was working on a major overhaul of my rental apartment building - adding a unit and combining two of them. Even though it was not a space that I would be living in, Austin had me go through his process of really picturing who would be using that space. It may feel strange to have that conversation with a designer but it really helped the team to shape the design. Luis worked on my drawings and was excellent with turnaround and answering my questions. The team worked seamlessly together and I really enjoyed my experience - not having to worry about how things are going. This is so rare these days when you have to follow up with folks a hundred times to get anything done. Austin would even follow up with me when I hadn't responded to an email. I would use 3 Lights again in a heart beat. read more