Dunaway Expands Its Influence in Central Texas with New Planning Studio

Dunaway, a leading multidisciplinary design firm, has made a significant leap in expanding its footprint in Central Texas with the recent establishment of a dedicated Planning and Landscape Architecture (PLA) studio in its Austin office. This launch not only marks a new beginning for the firm but also coincides with a milestone, as it celebrates ten years of presence in Austin, a vibrant and rapidly evolving urban landscape.

Founded in 1956 in Fort Worth, Dunaway has built a stellar reputation over the last nearly seven decades as a trusted advisor and design partner, focusing on enhancing community life across Texas. With branches strategically located in major cities such as Dallas, Midland, and San Antonio, the firm is committed to engaging and uplifting the communities it serves.

The introduction of the PLA studio reinforces Dunaway’s existing capabilities in planning and design, which have been a core part of their operations since 2005. The new team in Austin comprises highly skilled professionals including Brendan Wittstruck, Kelsey Ross, and Shelby Horton, all bringing a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the local context to their work.

Brendan Wittstruck takes the helm as Studio Lead and Associate, boasting over a decade of hands-on experience in landscape architecture, urban design, and community engagement. An Austin native, Wittstruck has collaborated with various prominent local clients, such as the University of Texas and the City of Austin, enhancing the local environment through thoughtful design and planning.

Kelsey Ross joins as a Discipline Lead, bringing her extensive background in parks, trails, and urban infill projects. With a master's degree from UT Austin, her expertise aligns perfectly with the community's needs and aspirations, ensuring that the designs crafted will resonate within the community they serve. Shelby Horton, who has transitioned from Dunaway's Fort Worth office, is excited to contribute her innovative design ideas and local insight.

Brendan expressed eagerness about working alongside Kelsey and Shelby, mentioning, "This is a team of creative, innovative designers committed to their craft and to the communities in which they work." The addition of these talented professionals signifies not only a boost for the Central Texas team but enhances Dunaway’s entire Planning and Landscape Architecture Line of Business.

The studio is set to focus on a variety of landscape architecture and planning services, including urban design, park and open space planning, sustainable infrastructure, and community engagement efforts. Their proactive approach aims to create comprehensive and location-specific solutions reflective of the unique character and ambitions of the communities within Central Texas.

Early projects already underway include the preliminary design services for the City of Kyle’s Steeplechase Park and Lake Kyle Park, part of a broader master plan update for Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS). These projects showcase Dunaway's dedication to enhancing public spaces through inventive design and sustainable practices.

As Dunaway celebrates a decade in Austin, the launch of its PLA studio stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to design excellence and community sustenance. The firm’s trajectory points toward a future enriched with impactful design that nurtures the fabric of Central Texas.

With this new studio, Dunaway is well positioned to continue making meaningful contributions to the urban fabric of Austin and its surrounding areas, striving for a legacy of creativity, community, and collaboration.

To learn more about Dunaway and the impact they are making in Austin, you can visit their official website.