F5: Paige Lawrence on Wildflowers, Vintage Furniture, a Fiddle-Leaf Fig Plant + More

Raised in Texas, Paige Lawrence earned a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University before moving to Los Angeles. It was here that an early role in kitchen design and interiors sparked her interest in the built environment.

Lawrence eventually received a graduate degree and became a licensed architect. After several years at a residential firm, she returned to the Lone Star State and joined 787 Design Studio, where she leads the practice alongside founder Patrick Mackie.

Photo: Shay Wills

The duo is known for thoughtfully-designed homes across Austin and the surrounding region that respond to the natural landscape. For Lawrence, a project always starts with the floorplan. “I thoroughly enjoy the process of getting to know a client’s daily life, their routines and rituals,” she says. “That understanding is everything, because it’s what allows me to design spaces that don’t just look beautiful, but genuinely function for the people within them.”

To capture her ideas, Lawrence uses a combination of analog and tech. As a self-described doodler, Lawrence almost always grabs a sketchpad, because she loves the tactile feel of pen on paper. She is careful to not make waste with endless scraps, and if multiple iterations are needed, she can easily switch to an iPad.

While Lawrence is busy with career and family obligations, if she could find the time she would try her hand at woodworking or making furniture. “There’s something really appealing to me about creating a piece you can actually use, that will sit in someone’s home and last,” she notes. “And honestly, the technicalities of it suit my type-A mind.”

Today, Paige Lawrence joins us for Friday Five!

Photo: Paige Lawrence

1. Wildflowers

Growing up in Texas, I’ve always been in awe of the wildflowers that seem to appear out of nowhere each year. They’re a simple surprise that never gets old and bring a quiet sense of joy. I feel a responsibility to care for and preserve them on my own property so this small, magical moment can be experienced for generations to come.

Photo: Paige Lawrence

2. Fiddle Fig

I bought this fiddle-leaf fig plant on a whim about 13 years ago when I first moved to Austin. It was barely a foot tall and picked up at a big-box hardware store, with no real plan for what would come next. Since then, it’s been through three moves, countless trims, and more neglect than it probably deserved. I’ve chopped it back many times and propagated smaller versions along the way. Despite my questionable plant skills, it’s continued to grow and thrive. It’s one of the first things people notice when they walk into our home and has become a lasting part of its identity. I’m excited to see what it becomes next.

Photo: Paige Lawrence

3. Dogs

I’ve always been a dog person and have never been without one. While dogs have brought me a lot of joy, they’ve also brought heartache. In my early 20s, living in Los Angeles, they pushed me to explore parks and hiking trails I might not have found otherwise. Now, they give our family something to care for, learn from, and gather around. They’ve become a quiet way to teach our children responsibility while still enjoying the companionship and love dogs bring. We recently adopted our newest dog in what felt like pure fate, and it’s been one of the best decisions we’ve made. He’s playful, affectionate, patient with kids of all ages, and a perfect fit for our family.

Photo: Paige Lawrence

4. Vintage Furniture

I’ve always been drawn to patterns and vintage furniture, and when the two come together, it feels like the best of both worlds. These chairs were passed down to me from a family member and won me over immediately. The bold, colorful pattern paired with the simple vintage frame creates an easy balance. They make a statement without trying too hard. That’s what I love about vintage furniture, it carries character and presence without feeling pretentious or showy.

Photo: Paige Lawrence

5. Sunrises and Sunsets

This may not come as a surprise to some, as I imagine it’s a favorite for many. Much like Texas wildflowers, sunrises and sunsets still catch me off guard. Even though they happen every day, their beauty never feels routine. The variety of colors and settings never gets old. A sunrise feels like a new beginning, bringing energy and hope for the day ahead, while a sunset offers a sense of peace and quiet closure. The colors they produce are some of the most magical hues nature creates, and knowing the moment is brief makes it feel special. Like being part of a quiet, shared experience with millions of others.

Works by Paige Lawrence and 787 Design Studio:

Photo: Tobin Davies

Staircase
With its undulating steel railing and integrated details, this staircase reimagines structure as sculpture, where code, craft, and color converge.

Photo: Tobin Davies

Bath
Part bath, part courtyard retreat by 787 Design Studio and Annie Downing Interiors. This light-filled space layers terrazzo, glass, and a freestanding tub within the shower for a fresh take on modern family living.

Photo: Molly Culver

Living Room
A contemporary take on the ranch house by 787 Design Studio and Annie Downing Interiors. Breezeways and floor-to-ceiling windows connect living spaces while framing uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape.

Photo: Tobin Davies

Front Exterior
Old World inspired architecture meets modern living by 787 Design Studio and landscaping by LandWest Design Group. A tree anchored plan shapes the experience of the home.

Photo: Tobin Davies

Backyard Pool Exterior
A courtyard pool and covered terrace define the heart of the home by 787 Design Studio, turning site constraints into a layered outdoor experience.