Buildings, both individually and collectively, have an enormous impact on our lives. At the residential scale, the layout of your kitchen can drastically influence the level of enjoyment that you get from the daily task of cooking; on an urban design level, good design can promote interaction with members of your community using wide sidewalks with outdoor seating and naturally landscaped islands that soften the street edge.

It is important to understand that no amount of well-designed space matters if we do not respect the natural surroundings that provide us with so much. Kelly Weger designs promote the use of sustainable materials and efficient utilization of energy. Also known as 'green' buildings, these types of spaces help to preserve our natural environment while creating healthier environments indoors, which benefit everyone. Considering that energy prices are skyrocketing, and that buildings consume over 66% of our nation's energy, energy efficiency is a worthwhile investment.

Kelly Weger is from Michigan, having received her Bachelor's Degree in Science for Architecture. She approaches building design with a background in art, and strives to create inspiring spaces. After working full time at an architecture firm in Ann Arbor, she moved to Austin, Texas in 2004 to obtain her Master's Degree in Architecture with an Emphasis in Sustainable Design. This Emphasis, and geographical location, focused her designs on the importance of good insulation, natural shading, and rainwater collecting.

It was in Austin that Kelly began to hone a passion for designing spaces that play an active social role in the community. Projects with the greatest potential to positively influence people on a daily basis include museums, libraries, community centers, and schools. All of these typologies come with an opportunity to address social issues that plague communities, such as racial relations. Have you ever wondered how a library can help bridge the gap between longtime residents of Blanco, Texas and the burgeoning immigrant community? It can be done. Architecture is a form of social activism. You just need the right designer.

Kelly Weger is certified as a LEED Accredited Professional. The LEED program (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) was created by the U.S. Green Building Council to promote sustainable building design with a consistent approach to measuring success.

Unable to keep still, Kelly continues with her love of photography and portrait work for both individuals and realtors in her spare time. As with great architecture, the beauty is in the details.