Before it became one of Austin’s most exquisite destinations, the Commodore Perry Estate had lived many lives; a grand private home, a school, a convent, and, eventually, an abandoned landmark. Its once-stunning architecture had faded, its gardens overgrown, its walls covered in graffiti. But beneath the dust and decay, the spirit of the estate remained, a place of beauty, history, and quiet magic waiting to be revived.

As part of the team entrusted with restoring that magic, I managed the complex web of moving parts behind a hand-painted wayfinding system that would feel as natural to the space as its sun-drenched courtyards and storybook interiors. Our team of craftspeople, developers, architects, designers, and hotel management translated a grand creative vision into something both functional and enchanting, ensuring that every sign fit seamlessly into the estate’s world of old-world luxury and playful charm.

With a project of this scale, conflicting needs and constant moving pieces were inevitable. My role was to bring clarity and consistency, to make sure that every specialist could focus on what they did best without getting tangled in logistics. I compiled historical references, secured approvals, coordinated materials, and organized every step of production so that when it came time to paint, the process was effortless. In the end, we produced over 300 hand-lettered signs, each one designed to feel like it had always been part of the property.

Now, as guests wander through the estate’s walled gardens, sip cocktails by the fountain, or get lost in the warmth of its jewel-toned rooms, they may not think twice about the signs guiding their way. And that’s exactly how it should be.