Heritage Design Studio, a name synonymous with elegance and architectural artistry, is celebrating a remarkable 25-year milestone in the luxury residential design industry. With studios in Southlake and Fort Worth, the firm has built a legacy of delivering custom homes that transcend trends and reflect each client’s personal vision—while enriching the community fabric across Texas.
Founded in 2000 by husband-and-wife team Chris and Angela Hough, and later joined by partner Shawn Webb, Heritage Design Studio has earned a sterling reputation for creating homes that are not just beautiful, but enduring. As of June 2025, the firm commemorates a quarter-century of honoring their founding mission: “Through beautiful and timeless design, we steward our clients’ dreams and embrace the Divine gift of creativity to enhance our community.”
“Our journey over the past 25 years has been a testament to our commitment to true-to-style design and neighborhood beautification,” said Chris Hough. “We’re deeply grateful for the trust and support of our clients, partners, and community who’ve been with us every step of the way.”
Angela Hough added, “It’s our privilege to collaborate with clients who share our passion for timeless beauty and desire to live within an artistic investment. Our team is driven to explore new horizons in luxury design and push the envelope in architectural excellence.”
What began as a boutique operation in Southlake has grown into a dual-office firm that supports a team of 12, including three acclaimed interior designers who guide the firm’s interior architecture. Every detail—every surface, texture, and flow—is curated to reflect both beauty and functionality.
Like any great story, Heritage Design Studio’s success wasn’t without challenges. In the early years, Chris Hough admits to being tempted by industry trends and competitive mimicry.
“It was a real turning point when we stopped trying to be everything to everyone,” he said. “Once I focused on what made me happy—designing homes that feel like living art—I rediscovered the joy of building a business. At that point, competition stopped mattering.”
In 2014, the Houghs brought in Shawn Webb, a California-based architect with a passion for timeless design. He moved to Texas just a month after receiving the job offer. Within a few years, it was clear: his values, standards, and dedication were a perfect fit.
“Our decision to make Shawn a partner was easy,” said Angela. “He took pride in high-quality architecture and brought the same client-first mindset we value so deeply.”
That creative clarity also laid the foundation for growth. At the heart of Heritage Design Studio is a philosophy grounded in stewardship, collaboration, and trust.
“Relationship is the fruit of trust,” said Angela. “And trust grows when we follow through on our promises, stand behind our work, and consistently deliver results that make clients say, ‘This is even better than I imagined.’”
That people-first ethos extends beyond client relationships. The leadership team ensures every employee feels empowered to use their strengths, fostering a culture of mutual respect and creative excellence.
Among many proud achievements, one standout moment came in 2010 during the Kaleidoscope of Homes show in Southlake. Heritage Design Studio was invited to create two custom homes—at the tail end of a national recession.
“We were given full creative rein, and the response was overwhelming,” said Chris. “People traveled from across the country to see those homes. It became clear that the market was hungry for authentic, graceful architecture. That show catapulted us into a new chapter.”
As they celebrate 25 years, the Heritage Design Studio team isn’t slowing down. With a full schedule of projects across the state, and a team eager to push the boundaries of design, the firm’s second quarter-century promises even more impact.
“Our homes are crafted so their age is a mystery—because they are designed with lasting proportions, honest materials, and archetypal integrity,” said Chris. “That’s how architecture becomes legacy.”
With a steadfast mission, a growing team, and decades of lessons learned, Heritage Design Studio remains a beacon of excellence in Texas’ architectural landscape—where every project begins with a dream and ends with something truly timeless.
