Douglas Austin is a San Diego, California-based architect who leads AVRP Skyport as CEO and provides next-generation architectural design solutions that place human experience first. Over the years, he worked on a wide range of projects, including high rise buildings, that earned him a City Council Special Commendation. Douglas Austin was recognized by the civic body as a “guardian of the design of the skyline of downtown San Diego.” Mr. Austin’s people-oriented roots in his field stem from studies in sociology and psychology while working toward qualifications as an architect at California Polytechnic State University. He has pioneered a building approach that combines traditional systems with patented modular components. The latter increases efficiency and decreases waste while allowing for the use of concrete forms capable of bearing major structural loads and meeting California structural code requirements. Among Mr. Austin’s successful projects has been Yes in God's Backyard (YIGBY), which represents the firm’s commitment to affordable housing and provides the local community with innovative pathways toward addressing homelessness and poverty. Another recently developed design concept is for a building that will serve as a gateway to the city from Little Italy, in his local community. A proposed Oakland, California, housing project Lakehouse will encompass two residential towers: a seven-story affordable mid-rise and 26-story market rate high-rise. Included on site is a parking garage with space for 200 cars and bicycle storage.