Residential design focused on buildability, performance, and financial discipline.
Design Philosophy
Buildability
Practical designs informed by hands-on construction experience
Clear, detailed drawings that reduce ambiguity and prevent problems in the field
Early coordination between structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to avoid conflicts
Performance
Energy efficiency through airtight, well-insulated envelopes, natural daylighting, and streamlined building systems
Building assemblies and construction details that prioritize durability and low maintenance over time
A comprehensive, systems-oriented approach to energy, water, health, and materials.
Financial Discipline
Elegant and economical designs that reduce complexity and waste
Financially informed decision-making across building size, layout, materials, and systems
Maximizing usable space and value within given project constraints
Services
Urban Infill
Optimizing building layouts, massing, and efficient floor plans for tight urban lots.
Custom Homes
Working closely with homeowners to shape ideas into thoughtful, buildable designs.
Modular / Off-site Prefab
Tailored home designs developed with factory production, transport, and on-site assembly in mind.
Design Process:
Feasibility Analysis: Early evaluation of site constraints, zoning, and budget to confirm project viability and identify key opportunities and risks before design begins.
Conceptual / Schematic Design: Development of initial layouts, massing, and spatial concepts that establish the project’s overall direction.
Design Development & Engineering Coordination: Refinement of floor plans, elevations, and building geometry in coordination with structural and MEP engineers.
Permit & Construction Drawings: Preparation of clear, comprehensive drawing sets suitable for permitting, pricing, and construction.
Portfolio: Selected Residential Work
Urban Infill Case Studies:
About Us
Element & Form is a residential design studio specializing in custom homes, urban infill, and modular/off-site prefab housing. We work closely with homeowners, developers, and builders to translate early ideas into clear designs that maximize value within real site, budget, and construction constraints. Our work emphasizes thoughtful planning, clear communication, and disciplined decision-making through every phase of the project: Dream, Design, Develop.
Lloyd Minick, Founder & Principal Designer
Certified Professional Building Designer, National Council of Building Designer Certification
Certified Green Professional, National Association of Homebuilders
Certified Passive House Tradesperson, Passive House Institute
Lloyd’s background spans custom homebuilding, urban infill, and high-performance housing, with hands-on experience across every phase of real estate development—from early feasibility through construction and delivery. Prior to founding Element & Form, Lloyd led the design and execution of dozens of energy-efficient residential projects in Austin, Texas, including single-family, ADU, and multi-family developments. His work is grounded in practicality, performance, and alignment with client goals and project constraints.
Contact Us
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