Claudia A. Howard, MA
Claudia A. Howard, MA, is a highly skilled Interior Architectural Designer and the founder of Claudia Howard Interiors LLC, based in Austin, Texas. With a Master of Arts in Interior Architecture and Design from the Academy of Art University and a Bachelor of Architecture from the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Claudia brings a global perspective to her work. Since moving to the U.S. in 2010 from Mexico, she has built a career grounded in thoughtful, innovative design, combining technical expertise with a keen eye for aesthetics.
Over the course of her career, Claudia has held key design roles with distinguished firms such as Leslie Fossler Interiors, Amity Worrel & Co., and The Decorators Unlimited. She is experienced in both residential and commercial projects, specializing in creating detailed construction documents, space planning, and selecting finishes, lighting, and fixtures that reflect each client’s unique vision. Mentored by Amity Worrel, Claudia values collaboration, feedback, and mentoring junior designers, emphasizing the “why behind the what” in her work.
Claudia’s entrepreneurial spirit is exemplified by the launch of her own firm, which she successfully manages while raising two children. Beyond her professional achievements, she is an active member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and supports the non-profit Our Greatest Purpose, benefiting Ronald McDonald hospitals. In her personal life, Claudia enjoys traveling, long walks with her husband, lake outings, movies, and creating meaningful experiences with family and friends.
• Academy of Art University - MA
• International Association AIA
• Our Greatest Purpose
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support of my family and the guidance of my mentors, whose encouragement and wisdom have been invaluable throughout my journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always over-deliver and communicate with clarity, assuming that others may not fully understand. Keeping things simple and easy to read has consistently helped me build trust and ensure my work makes a meaningful impact.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: just do it. Often, we hesitate, thinking it’s not our time. But once you take that first step and cross the bridge, each subsequent challenge becomes easier to navigate and more manageable.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field right now is navigating a highly competitive landscape while attracting and retaining top talent. The abundance of skilled professionals pushes us to continuously innovate, elevate our standards, and create environments where exceptional talent can thrive.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are perseverance, resilience, integrity, and honesty. I believe it’s okay to make mistakes, as long as you take responsibility, seek forgiveness when needed, and commit to doing better in the future.