Architects Patrick Dunn and James Harris are Lake Highlands residents who joined forces in 2006 to create the Architecture firm, dunn+harris:architecture.

The two have known each other since 1986, when they met in sophomore design studio at Texas Tech University.

After graduation, they stayed in contact while each worked for renowned architecture firms building resumes that include a vast array of project types in the U.S. and locations abroad.

LH Today would like to introduce our readers to this talented team and share a little bit about their backgrounds, business and Lake Highlands connections.

Patrick Dunn and James Harris have called Lake Highlands home for a combined total of over 15 years.

"For years we had discussed eventually getting together to start our own firm," says Harris. "When we both ended up in Lake Highlands and found our objectives align, we decided the time was right.”

Their firm specializes in light commercial and residential architecture and dunn+harris is quickly becoming known for their professionalism and collaborative approach with clients.

“We’re both passionate about design and the creative process," continues Harris. "But we find the greatest satisfaction comes from exceeding a client’s expectations."

Their latest project, Sweet Lucy Ranch in Lampasas, Texas exemplifies their design philosophy, while also giving evidence to the exceptional client service Harris describes.

"The owners of Sweet Lucy Ranch wanted their new house to recall traditional ranching structures of the Hill Country region while incorporating durable, low maintenance building materials," explains partner Patrick Dunn.

Utilizing a green perspective in their approach to design is nothing new for these LH residents. Passive solar design strategies helped reduce operating costs, while rainwater is diverted from the property's roof to a cistern to help limit disruption of natural drainage patterns and meet water demands in an eco-friendly way.

"The electrical system is wired to receive an electricity-generating windmill in the future," explains Dunn. "Power generation is typically the most expensive green element to add to a building, but once constructed, Sweet Lucy's windmill will provide a source of renewable energy for the project that will meet all of their electrical needs."

So aside from the design of breathtaking Hill Country residences, where do these LH neighbors find themselves on the weekends?

"If I'm not training or competing in a triathlon, you might find me working on my own home," says Harris. "Regular home improvement projects keep me busy, including welding and fabricating my own lamps and furniture."

Working around the house is a weekend task shared by Dunn, as well. This is in addition to spending time with his wife, Libby, and their twin daughters, and trying to find a spare moment to enjoy his hobby of oil painting.

You might also catch these Red Raider alum at the occasional Tech football game, cheering for their team.

Although the partners pursue work nationwide, dunn+harris: architecture embraces any opportunity to work closer to home in Lake Highlands and the surrounding Dallas area.

Additional projects from Patrick and James can be seen at http://www.dunnharris.com.