Hi, I’m Nathaniel Cooper

I’m a graduate student at the University of Texas at Austin. Originally from Kentucky, I like to be outside and active or behind my camera looking at the world through other lenses. Design is always a fun challenge in my mind across multiple project types. From multi-family apartments to desert settlements and military barracks, I have a vast array of experience both professionally and educationally.

Outside of architecture and design you’ll find me preparing for marathons or another big fitness challenge I can find. I love taking portraits with my camera or finding interesting compositions of architecture in different cities. I restore guitars found on the side of the road and try to help my friends and family whenever I can.

My Journey

  • 2020 - 2023

  • Summer 2021 / Summer 2022

  • 2021 - 2023

  • 2024 - 2026

  • 2025 - 2027

I started my architecture and design journey at the University of Kentucky where I obtained my Bachelor’s of Architecture and a Certificate in Historic Preservation. I had a ton of opportunities with students and faculty and allowed me find my way in the design world.

Through a career fair, I found SV Design in Nashville, TN. Primarily a multi-family residential firm, I worked on plenty of other design niches. Here I learned what it’s like to use Revit at a firm and be a part of a team. From client meetings to site visits and company outings, I learned so many valuable skills and had fun doing so. Here, I became a member of AIA as an Associate.

While in my undergraduate program, I worked with the tech lab and woodshop to help students and faculty bring their ideas and designs to fruition. I got to meet everyone in the college and this allowed me to not only be more articulate in design software, but also gave me the opportunity to be a guest lecture for interior design students.

Graduating from the University of Kentucky, I began to work for Mason & Hanger as a full-time design associate. Here I found another niche of architecture in military contracting. This was one of the most welcoming groups of people I’ve ever met and allowed me to find purpose in my design work. Here I obtained my LEED Green Associate title.

Now I have moved to Austin, TX to earn my Master’s Degree and continue to make more connections during my time. Once I graduate, I plan on finishing the little amount of NCARB hours I have and begin studying for licensing exams.