Comma Turns Five

Five years ago, Comma Designworks was started with a simple but ambitious vision: to create the most efficient, design-focused architectural studio in the country. At the time, there was an opportunity to rethink how architecture was being delivered. We wanted to strip away unnecessary complexity, embrace technology, and build a studio where creativity and precision worked hand in hand. To prove that efficiency and great design aren’t opposites, but that they strengthen each other.

Looking back, I couldn’t be prouder of what our team has accomplished since our start in 2020.  From a pocket of Nashville, we outgrew our space that was formerly known as “the closet” into a shared space located in Wedgewood Houston. We have grown into a studio that balances design integrity with operational excellence. We’ve taken on projects across commercial, mixed-use, and institutional sectors. Each one a chance to challenge ourselves, refine our process, and create spaces that are both beautiful and intentional.

Not only have we grown architecturally but also as a team. In 2025 we more than doubled our staff and with that, we established an Interiors Department within Comma led by none other than Angelina Martens. She has stepped into this role and stretched our scope in more than just interior design; she brings so much fun and life into our office! Along with our Interior Department, our team of Architectural Designers has nearly doubled with the addition of Piya Iselin and Dalton Poopathi. Both have brought unique knowledge and a range of experience to our team. We are really fortunate to benefit from their insight and collaborative mindset on our team. To finish off this incredible year of growth, we brought in Bek Phillips to help keep our studio running smoothly with administrative efficiency and organization.

Our firm has experienced quite the growth spurt over the last year. With this, it has enabled us to care and culture every project, no matter the scale. These has been guided by the same principles that shaped this firm from the start: demand efficiency, respect collaboration, and never lose sight of design. With that in mind, this year we officially broke ground on two of our biggest projects to date. While delivering design excellence at that scale is an achievement on its own. Doing this while also pushing a multitude of other projects into and through construction speaks to the strength, adaptability, and grit of our studio. It’s a testament to how far we’ve come and how well we perform when we’re operating at full bandwidth. 

As we pioneer into year six, I’m incredibly grateful for where we’ve been and excited for where we’re going. The next chapter for Comma Designworks is about growth, expanding into new project types, exploring new regions, and deepening our commitment to sustainable, forward-thinking design. Our goal remains the same: we are constantly progressing into new territory without sacrificing the values that built us.  

To our team, our clients, and everyone who has supported us along the way, thank you for being part of this journey, for believing in our approach, and trusting us to do good, intentional work. Here’s to the first five years of Comma Designworks, and to all the possibilities ahead.