Ali Ames, an alumna of the University of Oklahoma’s Architecture program, recently had a project featured in House Beautiful, including on the magazine’s cover. The project is a breathtaking residence in Westlake, Texas. Ames, class of 2012, designed the exterior of the 17,200-square-foot home and collaborated on the interiors with designer Janelle Patton.
House Beautiful magazine cover showcasing work by Ali Ames.
Playfully dubbed the “Modern English Cottage… Mansion,” the home seamlessly blends the quaint charm of an English cottage with sleek modern elegance. Despite its grand scale, the design ensures a warm and inviting atmosphere, embodying both sophistication and livability. Every element of the home was meticulously curated over three years to reflect the homeowners’ personality, creating a space equally suited for intimate family gatherings and high-profile events.
Ali Ames.
Ames’ journey in the design world began in commercial healthcare design before she transitioned to residential work in 2014, driven by her passion for working closely with clients. In 2017, she took on a Project Manager role at Maestri Studio, where she honed her skills in selecting interior finishes and connecting architecture with interior design. This expertise led her to Utah in 2020, where she joined the renowned Studio McGee, further refining her approach to residential design. Now based in Dallas at Lark Interiors, Ames oversees both architectural and interior elements on her projects, including the project featured here, to ensure a cohesive and intentional design process.
Westlake residence exterior by Ali Ames.
The House Beautiful feature highlights the thoughtful craftsmanship behind the Westlake residence, emphasizing Ames’ ability to balance elegance with functionality. With an eye for detail and a deep understanding of both architecture and interiors, Ames continues to make a significant impact in the design world, bringing dream homes to life with every project she undertakes.
Westlake residence exterior by Ali Ames.
Gibbs College of Architecture is proud to recognize Petya Stefanoff, who is pursuing her doctorate in the Planning, Design & Construction (PDC) program, has been appointed the new role of Director of Community Development for the City of Shawnee, Oklahoma. She joined the city in 2024.
Gibbs College of Architecture is pleased to announce that Amber N. Wiley, Ph.D., associate professor in the Division of Planning, Landscape Architecture and Design and director of the Institute for Quality Communities, has received national recognition for her book Model Schools in the Model City. The book has been named a finalist for the 2026 the PROSE Awards.
Gibbs College of Architecture Regional + City Planning Professor of Practice Vanessa Morrison and Associate Professor of Architecture Deborah Richards’ Open Design Collective received top honors at the inaugural BlackSpace Urbanist Collective Studio KIN Pitch Night Competition, held last month in Brooklyn, New York City.
