Profile
Founded in 2000 by Principal James Harkrider, Studio HXD is an architecture and design firm committed to creating thoughtful, meaningful spaces that enrich the experiences of those who inhabit them. Since its inception, the firm has focused on developing architecture that is distinctive, purposeful, and enduring spaces that create unique experiences and leave lasting impressions.
Our team brings together individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, united by a shared passion for creativity, design, and problem-solving. This diversity strengthens our approach to each project, allowing us to develop innovative solutions that balance thoughtful design with practical considerations while remaining responsive to our clients’ goals and aspirations.
At Studio HXD, every project is an opportunity to explore ideas, challenge conventions, and transform concepts into purposeful design solutions. Our breadth of experience enables us to navigate complex design challenges with clarity and precision, delivering work that is both considered and impactful. Studio HXD’s work has received national recognition and has been featured in publications including Architectural Record, The New York Times, and Metropolis, as well as in lectures and exhibitions throughout the country.
Approach
We believe architecture should do more than express ideas; it should solve problems, enhance performance, and meaningfully improve the lives of the people who experience and use it.
Our practice begins with a thorough understanding of each project’s purpose, context, opportunities, and constraints rather than with a predetermined aesthetic or formal agenda. Through a rigorous and collaborative design process, we question assumptions, evaluate alternatives, and continually refine our solutions in close partnership with our clients. This approach allows each project to evolve in response to its unique circumstances while remaining grounded in clear objectives and thoughtful design.
We view architecture as the seamless integration of performance, function, and form. Whether developing new typologies, reimagining established approaches, or applying conventional solutions where they are most effective, our objective remains consistent: to create buildings that respond precisely to their purpose while offering lasting architectural value.
For us, the most successful architecture is where utility and beauty are not competing priorities, but inherently connected; where performance, function, and design come together to create spaces that are both purposeful and enduring.
Leadership
James Harkrider I Founding Partner
James Harkrider is the founding partner of Studio HXD. Since establishing the firm in 2000, he has led its design studio, overseeing a diverse portfolio of projects across multiple market sectors throughout the United States. His work has received recognition in prominent publications, including Architectural Record, Metropolis, and The New York Times.
Prior to returning to his native Texas, James served for five years as an adjunct instructor of architecture at Parsons School of Design, bringing his professional experience into the academic environment. He currently serves as a member of the Design Leadership Alliance (DLA) at Texas Tech University’s Huckabee College of Architecture, where he is collaborating with the college to establish the Marfa Studio program. The initiative focuses on identifying, developing, and constructing community-based projects that address the needs and aspirations of residents across far West Texas.
Michael Diani I Partner
Since joining HXD, Michael has led a diverse portfolio of projects across New York City and Austin Texas, ranging from complex repurposing renovation and addition projects to large-scale, multifamily mixed-use developments. He is actively engaged throughout every phase of the design and construction process, from schematic design through construction administration. This hands-on approach enables timely decision-making, minimizes unforeseen challenges, and ensures that the completed project remains true to the client’s original design intent.
Michael thrives on complexity and brings a thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach to challenging sites, demanding programs, and tightly defined budgets. He excels in environments that require both creative problem-solving and technical rigor, balancing design excellence with practical execution to deliver successful project outcomes.