Our Values

 

Integrity.

Our entire practice is built on a culture of integrity where we hold dear a sincere and honest approach.

Partnerships.

Partnerships are the foundation to our process. We believe in nurturing these relationships, old and new.

Community.

We are committed to develop responsible projects that enhance the community through thoughtful, quality design and craft.

Our name

vaast

: to bring value through expansive knowledge

: boundless

 

How it started

 

In 2009, two of the Vaast Founding Partners, Aaron Vollmer and Jean Pierre Trou, began building Runa Workshop, an Architecture and Interiors practice here in Austin.  Over the past fourteen years they have focused on building a brand around a client-centric approach where they have spent a great deal of time understanding who their clients are, advocating for them, and creating beautiful spaces that articulate a shared vision. Not only have they delivered noteworthy projects in the Austin area, but also, their tenacious spirit has carried their practice through some of the most challenging economic times. 

In 2017, Nikki Tebo, Vaast’s third Founding Partner, joined the Runa team where she has led marketing and operational efforts for the past 5 years. Prior to Runa, Nikki’s diverse professional experience ranged from healthcare design to managing operations for one of the largest lifestyle brands worldwide.  

Leveraging each partner’s experience as architects, interior designers, marketing and operational executives, Aaron, Jean Pierre and Nikki bring a holistic approach to the development process. With their combined years of experience and proven collaborative nature, their mission for Vaast is to provide value to their clients through the development of properties where their work will not only produce quality returns for their investors, but also represent the values of Vaast.  Integrity. Partnerships. Community.

 
 

Our Team

  • Partner

    Aaron Vollmer, Founding Partner and visionary behind Vaast, brings over 25 years of experience in the AEC industry. Aaron’s keen sense for development is backed by a panoramic understanding of local code and feasibility, allowing us to pursue unique opportunities that may have otherwise been overlooked. His ability to quickly determine site feasibility is not only an invaluable asset, but also a skill that he is known for in the community. This knowledge alone sets the tone for Vaast’s experience.

    Over the course of his career, not only has Aaron led a successful, award-winning architecture practice, but he has also served on the Downtown Austin Alliance board, where he has dedicated time to positively impacting the growth of the city, connecting to the community and building relationships with his charismatic demeanor.

    Harnessing his knowledge of the local built environment, Aaron’s vision for Vaast is rooted in integrity, partnerships, and a quality product. In his words, “Let’s create something we can all be proud of.”

  • Partner

    Jean Pierre Trou, began his career as an Architect in his native Lima, Peru. After coming to the states to pursue a Master of Architecture degree from The University of Texas at Austin, he worked for one of the largest firms in Austin. It was there that he met Aaron Vollmer and in 2009, they decided to start Runa Workshop.

    Jean Pierre’s determination and passion for design is at the core of everything he pursues. This has led to national and international recognition for a number of projects, and most recently, his position as CEO and co-founder of AI company, mbue, which is an AI-based quality control tool for the AEC industry.

    As a Founding Partner at Vaast, Jean Pierre is focused on pursuing smart investments that will aid in the positive growth of the local built environment.

  • Partner

    Nikki Tebo, Vaast’s third Founding Partner, brings a vision of storytelling through the design, development and realization of the brand. Throughout her career, Nikki has been responsible for brand standardization, recognition and outreach in both the design and fashion industries.

    As the Director of Marketing at Runa Workshop, Nikki has worked alongside Runa’s Founding Principals, Aaron Vollmer and Jean Pierre Trou for the past five years, championing the Runa story. Together, they have collaborated on many successful projects that have gone on to win design awards, built brand awareness and promoted a culture that values individual’s contributions with a passion for craft.

    Launching Vaast as a brand is an exciting time for Nikki. She looks forward to producing all marketing efforts that align with Vaast’s mission: To create investment opportunities that are beyond ordinary through quality designs and quality returns.