We are a collection of creative (yet detail-oriented) designers and architects who believe that keeping it simple is the best way to tackle complex design problems.

Meet Our Team

  • Matt

    FOUNDING ARCHITECT

  • Allyson

    PROJECT DESIGNER

  • Isabella

    PROJECT DESIGNER

  • Luke

    ARCHITECTURAL INTERN

Matthew Szymanski, AIA |

Architect, Founder

Allyson Tomasello |

Project Designer

Isabella Powell |

Project Designer

Luke McBrayer |

Architectural Intern

Matthew, Arx’s founding architect, brings over two decades of experience in design and construction across the Triangle. He and his exceptional team specialize in crafting simple yet beautiful spaces characterized by clear layouts and abundant natural light, tailored to the unique needs of those living and working inside. With a background in design-build, Matthew balances the art of architecture with the practical matters of budget, maintenance, sustainability, and life-cycles. He begins each project by curating a collaborative team to develop designs. He is passionate about creating plans that enhance the capabilities of builders, craftspeople, clients, and existing site features. Matthew is recognized for his attentive listening, creative problem-solving, and ability to create cohesive spaces with a distinctive sense of place.

"We help people create spaces to live, work, rest, recharge, get away, or host a crowd in a way that uniquely fits them. A well-designed space draws you in, makes you glad to be there, and leaves you with a sense of that place."

Matthew has done extensive work with community outreach programs like SPARKcon, Neighbor2Neighbor, and Habitat for Humanity that promote the positive impact of good design. He is a past-president of the American Institute of Architects, Triangle Chapter and continues to pour into the next generation of Triangle architects.

In his free time: Matthew enjoys travel, art, hiking, oxford commas, and building furniture.

Allyson is an innovative and award winning designer who loves to focus on getting the details right. She is a mother of three amazing kids and blends her life experience into making beautiful spaces that function well. She loves designing homes that reflect the character and needs of the people living inside. She uses Revit and a sense of humor to forge design ideas that blend form and function. She spends thoughtful time considering the impact of each design decision and really loves it when a plan comes together.

“Great spaces affect our everyday lives. Our homes shape our time together. They need to have a style but also functionality related to the people."

In her free time: Allyson finds and tackles improvement projects in her own home or those of her friends. She also likes quality time with her dogs, crime shows, and laundry.

Isabella is passionate about the positive impact thoughtful design can have on everyday life. She brings a holistic approach to projects. Isabella focuses on the entire site, seamlessly linking interior spaces with the surrounding landscape. We are lucky that she’s so great with plans and plants. Her projects demonstrate her commitment to listening to clients and prioritizing their goals. She is a graduate of North Carolina State University.

“I am interested in the way people interact with their environments and how we can facilitate the best experience for them. I also love creating drawings and renderings to help clients visualize the final project."

In her free time: You can find Isabella working on one of her many art projects, ranging from crocheting, to painting, to refinishing furniture. She enjoys camping and backpacking any chance she can as well as spending time at home with her plants.

Luke is a Master's of Design student at NCSU, drawing on a diverse educational background that includes a Bachelor's in Media Studies with a concentration in film and video production from UNC Greensboro and an associate's degree in architectural technology. He is driven by the awareness of how much time people will spend in the homes he works on. His experience in video production has heightened his sensitivity to lighting, spatial sequencing, and the journey through the projects he undertakes.

"Visiting New York as a child and walking among all of the skyscrapers is what initially drew me to architecture. The Chrysler Building is still one of my favorites."

In his free time: Luke enjoys a weekly game of basketball and watching both really good and really bad movies.

Arx Design Co. |

Alumni

Sean P. Carlie G. AnnaGrey L. Mia G. David P.

“We are grateful for each designer, intern and student who spends time as part of our team."