At StudioMB, we like to say we specialize in being generalists. Though our projects may vary, our practice does not: we bring curiosity, a collaborative process, and fresh perspective to every project, from high-end homes to large corporate clients, higher ed, k-12 schools, retail, new builds, adaptive reuse, you name it. The same is true for our team, as each of us is actively involved in the many aspects of a job, from marketing to modeling, and more. And because we’re always learning and integrating new ideas, every client gets our most original, inspired, creative selves.

Located in the heart of our studio, our model shop is central to our work, literally. And with good reason: by giving our designs dimension using virtual reality or traditional balsa wood builds, we believe models help clients connect to the work and get a feel for how a particular project will come together. As the architects, we, too, benefit from the process of seeing an idea take shape to inform choices and changes along the way.

Everyone at StudioMB has an important and unique perspective and point of view. We like to get people talking, but we recognize that asking the right questions isn’t enough—you have to actually listen to the answers. On a regular basis we’re reminded that no one voice is more important than another. And the work is better for it.

Good connection and communication with clients, contractors, and each other is key to our happiness and success. Our customer-orientated approach means it’s “how can we work together in support of your goals,” not “here’s our goal for you.” We’re so grateful when our clients are invested in the process and share our love of design.

A fire wasn’t in the business plan, and when we had one in 2014, that could have been the end of us. Not going to lie: it was rough. But instead of focusing on tangible losses, we set our sights on the firm’s future with the understanding that our greatest assets are our people and ideas. And with that, we built our resilience and realized we can overcome pretty much anything. Which comes in handy since, although some (like fires) are bigger than others, disappointments are inevitable, in design projects and in life!

We not only accept the idea that things can and do change, but we know how to adapt without losing our footing. And given our size, we’re able to be agile in ways that a big firm can’t be, which comes in handy when curve balls come our way. At StudioMB, we’re not just willing but also able to shift our thinking or direction or plans as we go along—and that saves everyone, clients included, a lot of time and energy.

What’s that saying about all work and no play? At StudioMB, we know how to have fun; in fact, it’s as much a part of our culture as strong communication and creative, collaborative design. Call us corny, but we genuinely care about each other as human beings, as well as professionals, so we create opportunities to socialize whenever we can.

Being a 20 person firm means we all do pretty much everything—and that’s by choice, because in addition to sharing responsibility we share a love for all aspects of the work. The versatility of our expertise fosters meaningful collaboration and communication and keeps all of us, from principals to interns, deeply engaged in what we’re doing on any given day.

We continually hear that we’re relatable in our interactions and approach to design. Here at StudioMB, we’re not big fans of jargon; we pride ourselves on efficient communication. It’s a way of working that instills confidence, builds trust, and fosters collaboration that we can all feel good about, clients and colleagues alike. It makes us happy when people tell us we do great work, but the best feedback we get is we’re genuinely easy to work with.

We take our work seriously, but not so much ourselves—and in an industry teeming with oversize egos, clients tell us time and again: it’s refreshing. It also sets the tone for a more humane work experience and life balance, which is a priority for all of us at StudioMB. If there’s an antidote to burnout, this might be it.

StudioMB’s work has won design competitions, received international recognition and been hailed by publications and industry leaders, but that’s not our only measure of success. Just as important is getting to work every day with extraordinary people.  You might say our strong relationships with co-workers, clients, and builders is our greatest reward. Although we may be award-winning architects, we’re in the relationship business.

When your eyes and ears are open, creativity abounds. At StudioMB, we share a willingness and desire to look and listen on a whole new level, enriching each day, experience, and project. Perspective shifts when you widen your gaze, and next thing you know, you’re choosing colors based on a Brooklyn Brewery can.