heather rowell, aia rid

Founding Principal, Architect

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Heather Rowell’s design experience includes residential projects, retail, large scale hospitality projects, and interior upfits. Shaped by an Appalachian upbringing that fostered a deep appreciation for craft and community, Heather earned a Bachelor of Environmental Design in Architecture from North Carolina State University. She began her career designing educational facilities before moving to Houston to pursue a Master of Architecture at Rice University. Before co-founding HR Design Dept in 2018, Heather was a principal and co-owner of Content Architecture, playing a key role in the firm’s early growth and direction.

Heather was awarded the 2024 Ben Brewer Young Architect Award by AIA Houston, recognizing her leadership, design excellence, and service to the Houston community. She has taught graduate design studios at the Rice University School of Architecture and the University of Houston Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design. She remains active in student mentorship programs and is a frequent guest critic and lecturer. She was the inagural Chair of the AIA Houston Women in Architecture Committee and spearheaded the development of the WiA Professional Development Fund. Heather has served on the Rice Design Alliance Executive Board and currently serves on the North Carolina State Design Leaders Council Executive Board. She co-leads the Hollywood Trail Coalition in Houston, supporting neighborhood-driven public space initiatives along Little White Oak Bayou.

CV

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