About

About O’Connell Architecture

clock face Our mission is to breathe new life into old buildings through restoration of character defining features and thoughtful adaptation to modern life. Based in Austin, Texas, we are an architectural firm specializing in historic preservation. O’Connell Architecture, LLC was founded by Tere O’Connell in 2015, and we endeavor to celebrate the history of our city.

Where do we start?

Historical buildings all have a story to tell. Most of our projects begin with a fact-finding mission through city zoning and permitting records, historical research at the Austin History Center and other sources, and sometimes even genealogy. By having a frame of reference, and understanding the significance of the building and its owners throughout time, we can build upon the history of our community. This foundation of research allows us to incorporate modern amenities in a thoughtful and deliberate way while rejuvenating the historic features of a building.

We enjoy designing for our clients, while celebrating the character of the building and restoring its original beauty.

Our Team

Tere O’Connell

Tere O’Connell started O’Connell Architecture, LLC in 2015, bringing with her an extensive portfolio of experience including projects at the Governor’s Mansion, the Elisabet Ney Museum, and numerous historic courthouse…

Jack Hawkins

After 25 years of solo practice on Long Island’s north shore, Jack relocated to Austin, Texas a few years ago. Jack received an A.B. in Art History from Princeton University,…

Lori Martin

Lori earned a Bachelor of Journalism from UT Austin and her Masters in Historic Preservation from UT Austin's School of Architecture, which paved the way for her role as Architectural…

Texas Military Institute Mess Hall and Kitchen, Austin

Exterior and interior restoration, Federal and State Tax Credits

Merit Award for Restoration from Preservation Austin, 2021

John Otto Buaas House, Austin

Exterior restoration

Merit Award for Restoration from Preservation Austin, 2019

Tucker-Winfield Apartment House, Austin

Exterior and interior restoration, Federal and State Tax Credits

Honor Award from Preservation Texas, 2019
Merit Award for Restoration from Preservation Austin, 2018

O. Henry Hall, Austin

Masonry and window restoration, State Tax Credits

Honor Award from Preservation Texas, 2019
Merit Award for Restoration from Preservation Austin, 2018

Comal County Courthouse, New Braunfels

Master plan followed by full restoration

Historic Restoration Award from Preservation Texas, 2013
First Place in Restoration from the San Antonio Masonry Contractor’s Association, 2013

Dedrick Hamilton House

Part of the African American Cultural and Heritage Facility, Austin – Exterior restoration and interior adaptive use

Merit Award for Restoration from Preservation Austin, 2013
Merit Award for Historic Rehabilitation from Preservation Texas, 2013
Merit Award from AIA Austin, 2013

Texas Governor’s Mansion, Austin

18 years of professional guidance, including several construction projects and Historic Structure Report

Governor’s commendation, 2010
National Award of Excellence, Associated Builders and Contractors of America, 1999

Gerhard-Schoch House, Austin

Front porch reconstruction from photographs

Merit Award for Restoration from Preservation Austin, 2013

Fayette County Courthouse, La Grange

Master plan followed by full restoration

Citation of Honor from AIA Austin, 2007
Treasures of Texas Award for Best Restoration from Preservation Texas, 2006
Outstanding Construction Award, Austin Chapter of the Associated General Contractor’s Association, 2006