Design
Designing Spaces Where Learning Comes to Life
Our mission is to positively impact lives through thoughtful design—especially in the educational spaces we create. Since 1954, we’ve specialized in environments that inspire learning, community, and connection. Every project we take on is shaped by the unique needs and character of the community it serves. By engaging with educators, parents, students, and local stakeholders, we’re able to design spaces that support a variety of learning styles and encourage meaningful engagement.
Architectural sketch of Anna ISD’s Clemons Creek Middle School highlights the creative process and attention to detail every WRA project receives.
Collaboration is at the heart of how we work. We believe that the best ideas come from bringing together people with different experiences, perspectives, and skill sets. Within our firm, we foster a culture where everyone—regardless of their role or years of experience—can contribute to the creative process. Many of our senior leaders have been with WRA for decades, and we’re proud to invest in the long-term growth of our team.
WRA has a robust staff of interior designers that contribute to every project.
The interior design team is integral in creating educational and civic spaces that are both functional and inspiring. Interior designers at WRA are responsible for developing and coordinating specific sections of architectural drawings, particularly the interior-focused components, ensuring clarity and completeness throughout the design process. They collaborate closely with project managers and design leads to align interior concepts with overall project goals. The team emphasizes qualities such as attention to detail, drafting accuracy, and a strong understanding of materials, all while fostering a collaborative and proactive work environment.
We also believe that a strong connection to nature is essential in educational design. Our projects enhance the relationship between indoor and outdoor environments, especially in areas dedicated to career and technology education. By emphasizing natural elements, movement, and daylight, we design schools that support student well-being, creativity, and academic readiness.
Irving ISD Baby U features an oculus in the roof, which emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature throughout early childhood education.
Intentional design has a lasting impact—not only on how instruction is delivered, but on how students experience learning itself. By creating environments where students want to be, rather than feel they have to be, WRA designs schools that inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Subject Matter Experts
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Mary O'Brien
AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C | Partner
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Diego Barrera
AIA, NCARB, ALEP | Principal & Director of Design