People

Kirby C. Mears
Founding Principal, AIA, LEED® AP

After receiving his B.A. from Rice University, Kirby worked for Caudill Rowlett Scott in Houston.  He spent a summer in Europe on a traveling fellowship, and a year in Athens working for Frank E. Basil Architects and Engineers. Returning to Houston for a Bachelor of Architecture degree, Kirby subsequently worked for Taft Architects, William T. Cannady and Associates and Skidmore Owings and Merrill prior to establishing Murphy Mears Architects. Kirby’s father designed and built his family’s home, a one-story mid-century modern house with an attached sky-lit painting studio.  Kirby attended a public school in France with his brother and sister, and continues to make return trips to Southern France where he restored an apartment in a 13th c. stone building.  Kirby enjoys working with clients to make houses having an organizational logic and inspiring, light-filled rooms.

Amanda Chang
Designer

Amanda earned her Masters degree in Architecture from Rice University. In addition, she has a Bachelors in Architectural Studies with a minor in Geography/Environmental Studies from the University of California Los Angeles. Amanda’s design approach is driven by listening to and understanding the unique needs of each client. She strives to design with compassion, imagining herself in the client’s shoes, to create a custom solution that is both thoughtful and beautiful. She enjoys working with clients to design beautiful, inviting spaces that families can enjoy for generations. Amanda is also a Phius Certified Passive House Consultant. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her fiancé and pets, experiencing the wonders found in nature, listening to music, sketching, and learning about old buildings and their histories.

Rafia Imran
Architect, AIA, NCARB

Rafia is a licensed Architect in Texas, with a Master of Architecture and a Minor in Urban Planning from the University of Houston, along with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Portland State University. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest and now living in Houston, she brings a unique perspective to each project. Rafia excels at maintaining a holistic view of projects, ensuring that each element aligns seamlessly with the overall design intent. She is passionate about creating homes that are not only functional but also deeply personal, tailoring each design to reflect the unique needs and aspirations of clients. Her approach ensures that every project resonates with the individual stories and lifestyles of those who inhabit the spaces. She is dedicated to shaping environments that celebrate natural light and utilize organic materials, fostering a sense of connection and well-being. Outside of her professional life, Rafia enjoys traveling near and far with her husband, exploring new culinary experiences, and baking.

Liliana Bravo
Designer, Assoc. AIA

Liliana received her Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Houston. With five years of experience specializing in residential, she brings a distinctive creative vision to the firm. Her love for architecture is matched by her enthusiasm for collaborative design process, bringing a unique blend of creativity and teamwork to every project. In her free time, Liliana loves traveling to Mexico and spending time with her family.

Nicki Nugent
Designer

Originally from the small town of Danbury, Texas, Nicki pursued her undergraduate studies at Texas A&M University in College Station, where she earned a degree in Environmental Design with a minor in Sustainable Architecture and Planning. Nicki’s design philosophy is centered on a deep understanding of her clients’ goals, aspirations, and personal stories. She believes that the most impactful homes are those that truly reflect the people who live in them, and she excels at curating spaces that are as unique and dynamic as her clients themselves. Outside of the office, Nicki is an avid cook and baker who loves experimenting with new recipes and indulging in her creative hobbies. She enjoys being crafty, attending concerts with friends, and staying active with pickleball.

Miranda Greenwalt
Designer

Miranda is an architectural designer with multiple years of hands-on experience in the field. She holds both a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture from the Savannah College of Art and Design, where she also earned a Minor in Architectural History. Driven by a commitment to help clients realize their visions, Miranda’s work is deeply connected to the natural environment, emphasizing harmony between indoor and outdoor spaces. In addition to her architectural work, Miranda is an accomplished photographer, painter, and golfer.

Carmen Jimenez
Designer

Carmen graduated from Texas A&M University where she received her Bachelors in Environmental Design and a Minor in Art and Architectural History. With 3 years of residential experience, Carmen enjoys designing custom homes, administrating on site details, and creating realistic renders of clients’ future homes. In her spare time, she enjoys sketching, dancing, and learning languages.