Paul Morvant’s interest in architecture began in high school where he nurtured an affinity for the art of making things, but it wasn’t until college that he fully immersed himself in the discipline. His studies at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, helped him develop a profound appreciation for how architecture can have an affect on the way people live.

Paul coupled this fascination for the creative process with a deep seated desire to make a difference in the world. He joined Holly & Smith Architects in 2008.

Aspiration and lofty vision compel his thinking. Paul says architects should strive — in every project and in every facet of design — to develop the built environment in a way that heightens one’s experience of the world. No detail is too small; no client thought or question, is too trivial to dismiss.

As he sees it, architects are employed to listen, and then to act deliberately to create honest architecture that is true to form, function and budget. In his career, as with life in general, Paul says listening is the key to understanding.

Outside the office, he stays active with other creative pursuits such as woodworking, but says his true idea of leisure is spending time with close friends and family.