David Lake, FAIA

David Lake is an architect, developer, urban advocate and environmentalist. With partner Ted Flato, he was named 2024's Gold Medal recipient, the highest honor from the American Institute of Architects. 

David is a Maverick. In his fifty-year career, he has carved a unique path dedicated to the belief that design, development, urban advocacy and environmentalism must merge if we are to address climate change and our future challenges in the built environment with minimal impact upon our natural realm; and to ultimately help heal and sustain our earth.

With a passion for sustainable urban development, David leads Lake|Flato's urban studio. David’s work is notable for drawing on cultural and architectural traditions, adapting to the effects of climate and fitting gently into the landscape. 

His notable projects include the Pearl Brewery Redevelopment in San Antonio, TX; the LEED Platinum Georgia Tech Engineering Biosystems Building; the LEED Platinum Austin Central Library; and The Holdsworth Center in Austin, TX, a sustainable campus dedicated to the training and leadership development of Texas’ public educators. He recently completed San Antonio’s U.S. Federal Courthouse and is currently working on designs for the expansion of San Antonio’s airport.

His work with Lake|Flato is internationally recognized and has been featured in more than 80 books and 300 international and national publications.