Join us as we hear from four leading Dallas contractors about their work and what is happening in residential construction today. Moderator. The program will end with an audience Q & A and drinks reception. Admission is free, however RSVP is required.

Admission is free, however RSVP is required.

RSVP to jean@dallasarchitectureforum.org

Special Thanks to Nasher Sculpture Center

Kate Aoki, AIA, is an architect and a founding partner of the experience and exhibition design firm Golden Egg Creative. With degrees in textile design and architecture, Kate is fortunate to practice in a profession that satisfies both her passion for fine art and the design of space. After spending more than a decade working in the architecture field, Kate shifted to a position as the Head of Exhibition Design at the Dallas Museum of Art where she developed a deeper appreciation for inclusion and public spaces. As a designer with Golden Egg Creative, Kate designs intimate and connective spaces in ways that engage visitors while inviting them to learn more about the art they experience and the communities in which they thrive. She carries this design philosophy into her studio teaching at the University of Texas at Arlington’s School of Architecture where she is a member of the architecture faculty.

Kate has dedicated much of her time to participating on art and architectural committees as well as studio and design award juries. She has a longstanding relationship with the Dallas chapter of the AIA, where she served as President in 2023. She served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Dallas Architecture Forum where she founded the Design Society, and the Dallas Foundation for Architecture, and she has spoken in the past on craft and the art of weaving, and design influences in Dallas.

Sam Allgood is the CEO of Allgood/Pfannenstiel General Contractors in Dallas, which prides itself on handcrafted contemporary homes of superior quality and uncommon finesse. Allgood is known for his unusual mix of qualities in the realm of general contracting: He is as passionate about client service, project management, architectural excellence and the owner experience of living in the finished home as he is about business strategy, development, sales and marketing.

Sam holds a post-baccalaureate certificate in construction management and a B.S. in marketing, both from Louisiana State University. Allgood is also an explorer of new materials, methods and processes — always pushing for refinement and revelation in everything he does for his clients, colleagues and team.

Stephen Hardy grew up on his father John’s job sites, acquiring a discerning eye and an appreciation for fine craftsmanship. As a second-generation builder, Stephen has long-standing relationships with DFW’s finest subcontractors, and his reputation among architects and clients alike has earned him the designation of one of Dallas’ premier custom home builders.

Stephen’s approach to building is one rooted in trust, transparency, and excellence. Keeping his operation small allows him to be selective about the projects he takes on and remain actively involved throughout the entire process – from initial pricing to daily supervision of the construction site. Meticulous attention to detail and clear communication between the homeowner and architect are at the heart of Hardy Construction. Working closely with respected design professionals, Stephen has completed several award-winning landmark homes.

Steve Hild has been involved in construction for over 50 years, over 40 years of that time running his own business. He has had the privilege of working on some of the most architecturally significant homes in Dallas with some of the most renowned architects in Texas.

Steve built his first modern home about 30 years ago when he had the opportunity to work with Corky Cunningham. He discovered that this was his calling since it melded his passion for construction with his appreciation of architecture. Steve developed a reputation for executing the exacting details required of modern architecture and has focused on building modern homes. HIs homes have been featured on the covers of over a dozen magazines, presented in numerous home tours, and won numerous AIA awards. Many years ago, Steve was awarded AIA Contractor of the Year.

John Sebastian is the CEO of Sebastian Construction Group, a Dallas-based company specializing in high-end residential construction. Founded in 1948 by his father, George, the firm has grown to over 90 employees with additional offices in Houston and Austin. Born in 1959, John is a third-generation Dallasite who with a degree in Architecture from Texas Tech joined the family business in 1982, focusing on architecture. After his father’s passing in 1992, John shifted the company’s focus to construction management.

Under his leadership, the firm has collaborated with renowned architects and completed notable projects for prominent Dallas families. Their work includes significant renovations of iconic residences, earning features in major publications like Architectural Digest. He has served on various boards, including The Dallas Architecture Forum and the Dallas Historical Society.

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