Marla Stephens

Marla Stephens

Designer

Marla finds inspiration in the details of everyday life, constantly questioning, observing, and pushing the boundaries of her craft. Growing up in Florida, she developed an innate connection to the natural world—from finding patterns in the pull of the tides to uncovering complexities in climate conservation. This curiosity evolved into a passion for design, in which she continues to test the intersection of place, ecology, and material innovation.

Marla holds both a Bachelor of Design and a Master of Architecture from the University of Florida, where she thrived in a fast-paced studio environment. At the end of her education, she was recognized with the AIA Henry Adams Medal, awarded to the most outstanding graduating professional degree student, as well as the Graduate Award for Excellence in Teaching. Her time abroad in Italy and the Netherlands sparked an appreciation for diverse, culturally tied perspectives, with her travels becoming an index, documenting and shaping her understanding of how individuals live, work, rest, play, and interact with their environment. She believes that architecture should not only be functional but personal—striving to design spaces that blend mindful details and individual rituals and, ultimately, spark wonder.

Outside of the studio, she enjoys yoga, biking, writing songs on the guitar, and spending as much time by the ocean as she can.