Moving House
Women-led Toronto design firm expands into the U.S. with 'home base' in Austin
On behalf of the whole United States, Austin is welcoming a new design firm. Thoughtform Design Build, a women-led extension of award-winning Toronto interior design company Wolfe, sensed that the Texas capital shared a similar love for luxury, wellness-oriented design, choosing it as its “home base” for its U.S. operations.
Thoughtform has recently begun working on custom residential and commercial projects in Texas and the wider Sun Belt region. The company has previously executed some projects in Miami and Los Angeles, and now wants to expand through Texas.
"Developing genuine relationships with clients to understand their needs is at the heart of our mission to create meaningful spaces," said Thoughtform President and Creative Director Jessica Neilas in a release.
Thoughtform will provide premium homebuilding and design services from construction to interior design, for clients seeking elevated, purposeful spaces centered around health and wellness. A major focus will be designing homes for hybrid living, with seamless integration of work, play, and life.
When asked about the expansion to the United States, Neilas told CultureMap, “I have always looked to the U.S. as this birthplace of ingenuity and possibility. Especially as a creative, I have been inspired by the inventors and entrepreneurship of the people of the U.S.”
Neilas goes on to explain her choice to base operations in Austin: "From the scenery – the hills and lakes, and the trails — this city inspires its dwellers to take advantage of the everyday opportunities to seek a healthier lifestyle."
One recent project exemplifies Thoughtform's approach to creating personalized, yet timeless spaces: The clients had bold personalities and wanted an interior that reflected their vibrancy. However, they were also mindful of investment value and potential resale.
Thoughtform used organic, yet dramatic materials like graphic marbles and textured wallpapers to create focal points with natural tones. They incorporated curved details for subtle playfulness, resulting in an artful, inviting home revealing itself through diverse materials. Their nuanced approach brought out the clients' essence in a relatable way, aligning with their values.
Another pair of clients sought modernity but worried it would seem cold when hosting family. The design approached the home like an art gallery, with artistic focal points. Vibrant prints, diverse art, and playful furniture created aesthetic joy. Warm hues softened the cool backdrop. The result blends sleek, modern forms with an energetic, welcoming gallery feel suiting the clients' tastes.
"We hope our approach to thoughtful design will resonate with the Austinites who are seeking a healthier work/play/live space of their own," Neilas added.
The firm's first Austin project is underway in Bouldin Creek. Thoughtform hopes to continue expanding in Texas and beyond. More information can be found at thoughtformdb.com.