Studio
Our role is not to impose, but to cultivate.
We believe architecture resonates when we can identify the patterns intrinsic to the land, and to the life that will be lived there, and weave them together in such a way that yields something else entirely:
architecture that is as much a portrait of a place as of the people within.
Based in Austin, Texas, Ryan Street Architects has served select residential and commercial clients since 2001, designing celebrated spaces that span from the chiseled landscapes of the Hill Country to the intimate courtyards of coastal Spain.
At the heart of our approach is a desire to elevate the human experience through richly contextual spaces that bridge the natural vernacular of an environment with the wisdom of the past and the serendipity of the present, that respond fully to the needs and desires of those who will reside there, and that resonate with an elegance, permanence, and authenticity that is testament to an inclusive process and an exacting standard.
Ryan Street
President
Melinda Lehman
Chief Operating Officer
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Ryan Street
President
Start Date at RSA
August 2001
School
Texas Tech University, 1998
Degree
Master of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
I love spending time with my family and traveling to places that inspire me.
When did your passion for architecture begin?
Growing up, my mother Shanny Lott attended the College of Fine Arts at The University of Texas and her passion for creativity in every form was woven into the fabric of our family, so early on I was frequently occupied designing forts and gathering the materials to build them. I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t busy designing something or taking some complex object apart just to figure out how to put it back together.
Melinda Lehman
Chief Operating Officer
Start Date at RSA
January 2020
School
University of Illinois, 1986
Degree
Bachelor of Science, Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
Everything!
When did your passion for architecture begin?
When I realized I was terrible at computer science.
Eran Montoya, AIA
Senior Associate / Project Architect
Jeremy Ristau
Associate / Project Manager
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Eran Montoya, AIA
Senior Associate / Project Architect
Start Date at RSA
August 2004
School
Rice University, 1995
Degree
Master of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
The world around us.
When you aren’t designing, what are you doing?
Contemplating. Exploring. Fixing things.
Jeremy Ristau
Associate / Project Manager
Start Date at RSA
November 2004
School
Texas A&M University, 2000
Degree
Bachelor of Environmental Design
Interests & Inspiration
Family. Coffee. Tomfoolery.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Helping people turn the home of their dreams into a reality. Seeing their excitement build as we work through the design, and having it culminate with walking through the completed project makes each experience unique and enjoyable.
Zach Moss, AIA
Associate / Senior Project Designer
Ashley Lohmann
Associate / Director of Business Development
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Zach Moss, AIA
Associate / Senior Project Designer
Start Date at RSA
April 2008
School
Lousiana Tech University, 2005
Degree
Bachelor of Architecture
Projects
Interests & Inspiration
Crawfish boils. Southern Mexico. Fishing. Traveling with family.
What are you curious about right now?
I have always been interested in things of quality, whether that is everyday items, furniture, arts/crafts or architecture. At RSA we are afforded the opportunity to help clients strive to achieve high quality, timeless architecture. Working as a team with the client, design team and skilled trades, it’s exciting to see these projects come to fruition.
Ashley Lohmann
Associate / Director of Business Development
Start Date at RSA
February 2013
School
Southeast Missouri State University, 2010
Degree
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Graphic Design
Interests & Inspiration
Podcasts. My little ones. The perfect latte. Binging TV.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Being surrounded by so much creativity on a daily basis and watching a home go from pen and paper to brick and mortar. I love being involved in photographing a home—it feels like the final step and brings the whole process full circle.
John Burgess, AIA
Associate / Project Architect
Randy Abernathy
Project Manager
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John Burgess, AIA
Associate / Project Architect
Start Date at RSA
April 2013
School
Tulane University, 1996
Degree
Master of Architecture
Projects
Interests & Inspiration
Live music. New restaurants. Photography.
When you aren’t designing, what are you doing?
Planning my next vacation. I enjoy travelling to France to practice my French, or hitting the ski slopes to practice not falling.
Randy Abernathy
Project Manager
Start Date at RSA
June 2014
School
Andrews University, 2008
Degree
Master of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
My children. Traveling with family. Coaching Little League.
When did your passion for architecture begin?
I grew up in a family of tradesmen, so at a young age I had already learned about framing, hanging drywall, and flooring. In high school I took a drafting class and was hooked. I have always enjoyed thinking about all the possibilities in home design and all the different aspects of bringing that design to life. How a home comes together is truly something.
Jacob Narvaez
Project Manager
Robert Ward
Project Manager
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Jacob Narvaez
Project Manager
Start Date at RSA
June 2018
School
University of Texas at Arlington, 2015
Degree
Master of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
Music. Reading. Gym time.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Taking part in helping someone realize their vision, and the further knowledge gained from the process each project entails.
Robert Ward
Project Manager
Start Date at RSA
October 2018
School
University of Texas at Austin, 1998
Degree
Master of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
Performing with other musicians. Road trips. Cats.
What’s something you’d like people to know about your field?
Being an architect is not as glamorous as Mike Brady makes it look, but it’s 1000 times more rewarding.
David Costea
Project Manager
Kip Townsend
Design Manager
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David Costea
Project Manager
Start Date at RSA
November 2020
School
University of Illinois-Chicago
Degree
Bachelor of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
French press coffee. Cars. Boston Red Sox. Single malt scotch.
When you aren’t designing, what are you doing?
Fishing as much as I can.
Kip Townsend
Design Manager
Start Date at RSA
May 2021
School
Oklahoma State University, 1987
Degree
Bachelor of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
Art & Science. Hospitality. Family. Digging & Planting. Mountains of Colorado.
When did your passion for architecture begin?
I have always loved art and drawing but the defining moment came in 4th grade – It was between Advertising and Architecture in a career study and Architecture won out when I learned it did not require a second language.
Beth Servant
Executive Assistant
Ryan M. Perstac, AIA, NCARB
Associate / Project Architect
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Beth Servant
Executive Assistant
Start Date at RSA
August 2021
School
University of Colorado at Boulder
Interests & Inspiration
My perfect pup. Yoga. Vegan tamales.
What do you like most about Austin?
I love being around the friendly and creative people that are drawn to this city. The open, green spaces and the array of outdoor activities we are lucky to choose from every weekend made moving here an easy decision. The live music scene is an added, welcome bonus!
Ryan M. Perstac, AIA, NCARB
Associate / Project Architect
Start Date at RSA
October 2021
School
University of Arizona, 2002
Degree
Bachelor of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
My wife and two cats. Restoring our mid-century home. The Sea Ranch.
What’s something you’d like people to know about your field?
Architecture involves design and construction, but there is so much more: the experience of compelling interior and exterior spaces, the landscape, place, comfort, memories, and family. I find great joy and satisfaction in working to enhance the lifestyle of residents and their guests.
Sara Sigurdardottir
Production Designer
Alane Ebner
Project Architect
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Sara Sigurdardottir
Production Designer
Start Date at RSA
February 2022
School
University of Greenwich, London, 2008
Degree
Bachelor of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
Exploring the world with my family and friends. Saying yes to invites and adventures. Discovering countries, cultures, and customs.
When did your passion for architecture begin?
As a kid I discovered architecture plans of our family’s townhome, and I started making my own house plans- creating stories of the people and families who might live there. Having a sibling in a wheelchair showed me that the world had obstacles for many people and I wanted to attempt to improve for those who could not. Architecture gives you the chance to explore, create, and make the world just a little bit more beautiful.
Alane Ebner
Project Architect
Start Date at RSA
August 2022
School
Rice University
Degree
Master of Architecture
When you aren’t designing, what are you doing?
You can find me gardening, swimming, or getting out to the park everyday with my dog.
Christine Cagliostro, AIA, RID
Project Architect
Katy Sielen
Project Architect
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Christine Cagliostro, AIA, RID
Project Architect
Start Date at RSA
November 2022
School
University of Texas at Arlington, 2013
Degree
Master of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
Practicing Yoga and Pilates. Kayaking on Lake Travis. Spending time outdoors with my husband and two Weimaraners.
What are you curious about?
At the start of a project, I am curious about the local materials, traditional building methods, and context of the place. I am always interested in understanding what makes people feel at ease in their environment, and working with the clients and craftspeople to produce thoughtful projects with an attention to detail.
Katy Sielen
Project Architect
Start Date at RSA
February 2023
School
Washington University in St. Louis, 2005
Degree
Bachelor of Arts in Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
Live music. Being outdoors. Gardening. My dogs. Puzzles.
When did your passion for architecture begin?
My passion for architecture began at a very young age- graph paper and Legos were some of my favorite toys as a child, and I started drawing plans for my “dream home” at 6 years old.
Chris Curtis, AIA
Project Architect
Mojdeh Shojaei
Accounting & Payroll Manager
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Chris Curtis, AIA
Project Architect
Start Date at RSA
March 2023
School
Kansas State University, 2011
Degree
Master of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
Walking the dog. Travel. Cycling. Breweries. In that order.
What’s something you’d like people to know about your field?
It’s not like the movies- I have not used a drafting board or T-square in decades.
Mojdeh Shojaei
Accounting & Payroll Manager
Start Date at RSA
May 2023
School
Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz (Jundi Shapur)
Degree
Bachelor of Arts Degree in English Language & Literature
Yvonne Gilbert
Millwork and Cabinetry Detailer
Tyler Newman
Production Designer
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Yvonne Gilbert
Millwork and Cabinetry Detailer
Start Date at RSA
March 2024
School
The University of Illinois
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies
Interests & Inspiration
Travel. Painting & Sketching. Nature. Reading. Music. Finding inspiration in the details.
When did your passion for architecture begin?
My appreciation for architecture started early, although I did not recognize the significance at the time. Growing up in a historic neighborhood in Elgin, IL I was surrounded by a mix of historic architectural styles and wide tree-lined streets. I was drawing constantly as a child and remember making scaled plans of my bedroom furniture layout. I identified architecture as my career focus only when I applied to college and had to choose a major. I was immediately captivated by the mix of art and technique, cultural influences, and the concept that places can shape our lives.
Tyler Newman
Production Designer
Start Date at RSA
May 2022
School
University of Arizona, 2024
Degree
Bachelor of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
Coffee. Soccer. Hiking. Learning.
What do you like most about Austin?
Austin is a place where unique ideas, styles, cultures, and activities all collide. There is a significant amount of design, architecture, and art being developed and created in the city, which means that there are always new experiences to have, places to visit, and things to see. Austin has an interesting blend of historic and modern design, giving the city rich character and an exciting future.
Fernando Rivera
Senior Project Manager
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Fernando Rivera
Senior Project Manager
Start Date at RSA
November 2024
School
University of Colorado Denver
Degree
Masters of Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
What’s something you’d like people to know about your field?
Interiors
Jennifer Sissom
Lead Interior Designer
Jenna Patino
Procurement Coordinator
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Jennifer Sissom
Lead Interior Designer
Start Date at RSA
February 2019
School
Oklahoma State University, 2016
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Interior Design
Interests & Inspiration
Rainy days & coffee. Painting. Jazz music. Switzerland. Milieu Magazine. My big fluffy puppy.
What are you curious about right now?
I’m curious about the individual aspects that make a house unique and special, and how they come together to create a home. The quaint, quiet spaces, the small personal touches, and the distinct pieces that bring joy. I strive to have an understanding of those who will occupy the space and how all of these things will come together and reflect them, because a home is more than just a space- it is a place of comfort and renewal.
Jenna Patino
Procurement Coordinator
Start Date at RSA
August 2021
School
Texas State University, 2017
Degree
Bachelor of Applied Arts, Fashion Merchandising
Interests & Inspiration
Family. Fresh cut flowers. Traveling. Photography.
When you aren’t designing, what are you doing?
Traveling, spending time with friends and family, enjoying the lake, taking the pup for a walk.
Alexa McGoey
Interior Designer
Mary Margaret Shannon
Junior Interior Designer
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Alexa McGoey
Interior Designer
Start Date at RSA
December 2022
School
University of Wisconsin Madison, 2020
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Interior Architecture
Interests & Inspiration
Yoga. Walking around Town Lake. Grabbing coffee or enjoying happy hour with friends.
When did your passion for architecture begin?
I drew my first floor plan when I was 7 years old- it was my childhood bedroom! I even drew an elevation with callouts to selections and material finishes. Thankful to now be in a career where I get paid to do the things 7 year old me thought was fun.
Mary Margaret Shannon
Junior Interior Designer
Start Date at RSA
May 2024
School
Baylor University, 2024
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Interior Design
Interests & Inspiration
Running. Cooking new recipes. Local boutiques. New York City. Sunsets.
When did your passion for interior design begin?
As a kid I loved rearranging the furniture in my bedroom and was always pestering my mom with magazine cut outs, wish lists, and inspiration- my very first bedroom mood boards. I begged her to buy new bedding, furniture and accessories every other season, so it came as no surprise to her when I chose to study Interior Design in college. I’m just grateful my once childhood hobby has now turned into a fulfilling career.
Christina Biancarelli-Phillips
Interior Design Production Coordinator
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Christina Biancarelli-Phillips
Interior Design Production Coordinator
Start Date at RSA
June 2025
School
Pittsburg State University, 2013
Degree
Bachelor of Business
Interests & Inspiration
Breve Coffee. Olive Green. Historic Homes. Oversized Florals.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
Working in an architecture and design firm where I support complex projects is incredibly rewarding for my logistics-loving brain that thrives on details. Being immersed in exceptional design and contributing to the process that brings each vision to life is truly fulfilling.
Open positions
Please send résumés, portfolios and references to rsacareers@ryanstreet.com.
No phone calls, please.
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