Our Studio
The studio is intentionally small. Our clients enjoy working directly with the people who design and deliver the project. That’s the point.
Stewards of Vision
Breck Studio was founded in Spring 2018 with a clear intention: to create deeply considered residential architecture rooted in place, process, and human experience. The studio’s growth has been driven almost entirely by relationships. Clients, builders, and interior designers return to Breck Studio because they trust the team as true Stewards of Vision: architects who not only deliver strong design, but remain deeply involved from the first sketch through the final days of construction. That long-arc commitment ensures the architectural intent is protected, refined, and ultimately realized exactly as envisioned.
“My first instinct is often to frame nature, rather than impose.”
— Breck Craparo, AIA
Design Philosophy
My approach to design begins with listening, both to my clients and to the land itself. My first instinct is often to frame nature, rather than impose, allowing light, landscape, and context to guide the architecture. I believe the best homes are clear and intentional, shaped by how people actually live and evolve over time. I value collaboration, disciplined decision-making, and a process that is thoughtful without being precious. The goal is to create residences that feel calm, personal, and enduring—homes that quietly support daily life while growing richer with use and time.
Meet Breck
Breck Craparo, AIA, leads Breck Studio as principal architect, guiding each project from initial concept through completion. As both designer and steward of the client experience, Breck takes a hands-on, collaborative approach that emphasizes trust, clear communication, and accountability. He focuses on building strong teams and lasting client relationships, ensuring each project is carried out with care, clarity, and intention.
Breck earned his Bachelor of Architecture from Woodbury University’s School of Architecture in San Diego. He began his career at the internationally recognized firm Olson Kundig in Seattle, where he developed a deep appreciation for thoughtful design and craft. He later joined Austin’s Dick Clark + Associates, working as project architect on both residential and upscale hospitality projects. While this experience built design chops and a technical foundation, his true passion remained residential architecture and the opportunity to work closely with families in shaping their homes.
In 2018, Breck founded Breck Studio to focus exclusively on ambitious residential work built on collaboration, clear leadership, and attention to detail. Since then, the studio has steadily grown through word-of-mouth and repeat clients, earning a reputation for thoughtful design and a highly engaged process. The work reflects an upward trajectory rooted in aligned vision, strong teams, and homes that are meant to last.
Meet the Team
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Ellis Kauffman
Project Architect
Ellis has been with Breck Studio for over six years and plays a key role in the technical development and delivery of the studio’s architecture. He supports work from early design through construction, overseeing coordination and documentation to ensure the architectural vision is carried out clearly and consistently through every phase.Ellis manages day-to-day project coordination, working closely with the principal architect, clients, and consultants to translate design intent into precise, well-resolved construction documents. He also leads the studio’s use of advanced visualization tools, including 3D modeling, visualization, and virtual reality, to strengthen both internal workflows and client understanding of the design concept and details.
An Austin native, Ellis earned his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Texas at Austin. Outside the studio, he restores vintage motorcycles and cars, an interest that reflects his methodical, hands-on approach to building.
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Mary Ann Fergie
Associate Architect
Mary Ann has been with Breck Studio for over five years and works closely with the principal architect to advance projects through design, technical development, and documentation. She is responsible for translating the studio’s design vision into precise digital models and drawings that support clarity, accuracy, and successful execution from design development through construction.Mary Ann focuses on maintaining rigor and consistency across project documentation, ensuring coordination between design intent, consultants, and construction requirements. Her experience supports the smooth delivery of complex architecture projects.
A graduate of the University of Texas, Mary Ann grew up in Corpus Christi and now calls Austin home. Her interest in architecture was shaped by extensive travel across Europe, Asia, and South America. Outside the studio, she enjoys running clubs, baking, and art.
Our Guiding Principles
The core principles that define how we serve.
Empathy
Understanding the goals, concerns, and emotions of the people around us is critical. We listen first, guide second, and make decisions with others’ emotions in mind. A home is more than a structure—it’s a deeply personal vision, and we treat it with the care it deserves.
Collaboration
The best results come from working together. Whether with clients, craftsmen, or partners, we foster a collaborative process built on trust, expertise, and a shared commitment to excellence. Clear communication and mutual respect ensure a smoother journey from idea to execution.
Accountability
True leadership requires honesty, transparency, and the willingness to take responsibility. We hold ourselves and our partners to the highest standards, ensuring every commitment is met and every challenge is addressed with integrity.
Fidelity
Staying true to the original vision is non-negotiable. Every detail, from concept to completion, is executed with precision, ensuring nothing is lost in translation. The build should always remain faithful to its intent, uncompromised and fully realized.