Company Established
Architects Lina and Michael Sabouni founded AUTOARCH Architects with the belief that good design has the power to shape communities, elevate everyday experiences, and stand the test of time.
From Lina Sabouni, AIA – Co-Founder and Principal, AUTOARCH
At AUTOARCH, design is never just about buildings—it’s about people. When I co-founded this firm in 1991, our vision was simple: to create spaces that elevate the human experience. Over the past three decades, that vision has grown into a practice rooted in integrity, community, and purpose-driven design.
Every project we undertake is an opportunity to listen deeply, lead thoughtfully, and deliver with care. Whether we’re designing a school that inspires future generations or a civic center that brings neighbors together, our work is shaped by the belief that architecture should serve a greater good.
As a women-owned firm, we understand the value of perspective—how diverse voices create more inclusive, equitable environments. I’m proud of the team we’ve built: passionate professionals who bring technical excellence, creative insight, and a shared commitment to shaping places that matter.
What sets AUTOARCH apart is not just what we do—it’s how we do it. We partner closely with our clients, walk with them through each phase of the process, and ensure that our designs respond to real-world needs. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We believe in listening, adapting, and delivering spaces that endure.
Today, our work spans architecture, planning, and development. But our mission remains unchanged: to enhance lives through thoughtful design. I invite you to explore our story, see our impact, and partner with us as we continue to shape the future—one community at a time.
With gratitude,
Lina Sabouni, AIA
Founded in 1991, AUTOARCH is a women-owned, locally-rooted architecture, planning, and development firm with a mission to enhance lives through thoughtful design and purpose-built environments. With more than 350 completed projects and over 40 million square feet of designed space, our portfolio reflects a lasting and visible impact on the built environment across Greater Houston and beyond.
We specialize in sectors that shape the public good—education, healthcare, civic, and commercial development—bringing design excellence to the spaces that define community life. As our role has evolved, so too has our service offering. AUTOARCH now provides end-to-end solutions, from master planning and architectural design to real estate development, ensuring continuity, efficiency, and accountability at every stage of a project.
At the core of our philosophy are three guiding principles:
We believe architecture is more than a profession—it’s a public service. That belief fuels our passion to design spaces that support learning, healing, gathering, and growing. Our team works closely with public and private stakeholders—from school districts and municipalities to commercial developers and healthcare providers—to deliver thoughtful, high-impact solutions tailored to each community we serve.
With over 30 years of leadership under Principal Lina Sabouni, AIA, AUTOARCH has earned a reputation for trusted stewardship, technical excellence, and advocacy for quality design. Lina and our multidisciplinary leadership team bring expertise in architecture, urban design, planning, development, construction management, and finance. Together, we are building a legacy of excellence rooted in community values, diversity, and service.
In a rapidly changing industry, we remain grounded in our commitment to long-term impact. We don’t just design for today—we design with tomorrow in mind. From classrooms to clinics, civic centers to commercial corridors, AUTOARCH is proud to shape the environments that shape people.
Experience Good Design.
Architects Lina and Michael Sabouni founded AUTOARCH Architects with the belief that good design has the power to shape communities, elevate everyday experiences, and stand the test of time.
AUTOARCH worked on its first facilities condition assessment for Houston ISD, laying the foundation for what would become one of the firm’s core service areas. This project marked the beginning of a robust assessment practice focused on helping institutions plan smarter and invest wisely in their facilities.
AUTOARCH expanded its scope by venturing into real estate development with Museum Square at Telfair—a mixed-use project that marked the firm’s first step into shaping communities beyond design. This milestone reflected the firm's growing vision and commitment to holistic placemaking.
The Coleman Health Sciences Tower earned LEED Silver Certification, reinforcing AUTOARCH’s commitment to sustainable design. This award-winning project stands as a benchmark for innovation, resilience, and environmental stewardship in healthcare architecture.
HUB | WBE | SBE
As a certified Historically Underutilized Business (HUB), Women Business Enterprise (WBE), and Small Business Enterprise (SBE), AUTOARCH brings more than just design expertise—we bring a commitment to equity, access, and community advancement.
Our certifications reflect who we are: a women-owned, locally rooted, community-based firm that values inclusion in both practice and partnership. We believe public projects should reflect the diversity of the communities they serve—and that starts with diverse teams at the table.
Through our certifications, we actively contribute to supplier diversity goals and broader equity initiatives across Texas. We’re proud to help agencies, school districts, and institutions meet their participation targets—while delivering thoughtful, high-quality architecture.
From the initial concept to the final touches, our team offers a comprehensive suite of design and construction services. We provide full architectural and engineering expertise, pre-design consultations, space planning, and detailed project scheduling. Additionally, our commitment to excellence shines through in our construction administration, interior design, and sustainable design approaches.
Our assessment and planning services are designed to prepare and guide projects of any scale. This includes master and strategic planning, facility assessments, feasibility studies, and safety surveys. We also specialize in educational specifications, site evaluations, and complex analyses, like roof and structural evaluations.
We believe in the power of community and visual communication. With over 30 years of community engagement, our services include public relations, aiding in fostering community support for projects. We are equipped to present ideas richly through graphic design, computer renderings, video, and immersive virtual reality presentations.
Design with Purpose. Grow with Us.
At AUTOARCH, we don’t just design buildings—we design opportunities for people to thrive. That includes the communities we serve and the team members who make it possible.
As a women-owned, locally-rooted architecture, planning, and development firm, we believe that meaningful design begins with a meaningful workplace. Our studio fosters an environment of collaboration, creativity, and integrity—where diverse perspectives are valued, professional growth is supported, and every voice has a seat at the table.
We’re always looking for talented individuals who are passionate about using design to make a difference. Whether you’re an emerging designer, seasoned architect, planner, or project manager, you’ll find a place here to contribute, learn, and lead.
Why Join AUTOARCH?
We believe in building legacies—starting with our own team. Join us, and help shape spaces that matter.
Explore Opportunities
If you’re ready to build with purpose, we’d love to hear from you.
