Founded in 1985 by Principal Jay W. Barnes III, FAIA, Barnes Gromatzky Kosarek Architects (BGKA) is a privately held firm based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to high-quality, well-crafted architecture and master planning. The firm showcases a variety of experience in Austin and throughout Texas, spanning educational, civic, and commercial projects. BGKA emphasizes the human component in planning and design, demonstrating a philosophy based on collaboration, exceptional client service, and the quality of results that can be produced by a highly inclusive stakeholder-driven process.

Our practice provides a full range of architectural services, including academic master planning, urban planning and design, feasibility studies, architectural programming, architectural design, and interior design. Much of BGKA’s work involves long-term, multiple-year engagements with clients involving stringent institutional standards. The firm has successfully designed and managed a wide range of project types, including higher education master plans, academic classroom and research buildings, residence halls, parking garages, renovations, scientific and laboratory facilities, office buildings, and more. Our strength is our versatility and collaborative approach that allows us to tackle any type of project.

The firm has been honored with multiple awards for excellence from many organizations,  including the American Institute of Architects, the Texas Society of Architects, the Urban Land Institute, Congress for the New Urbanism, and World Architecture News.

BGKA is certified by the State of Texas as a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB).