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Architect Marsha Maytum has died aged 69, three years after she was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Known for designing buildings that respond sensitively to their surroundings and the needs and desires of their users, Maytum believes strongly that architecture can and should address our most critical issues, including the climate crisis and social equity.
Until early 2023, when Maytum retired from daily practice as her ALS progressed, she led San Francisco-based Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects (LMSA) with her husband, Bill Leddy, and partner Richard Stacy. “One of our top priorities is the environment, and we really want to focus on that,” Maytum told RECORD last March about establishing the LMSA, which was originally founded in 1989 as Tanner Leddy Maytum. Stacy Architects. Since then, the 38-person firm has devoted its energy to what Maytum, Leddy and Stacy call “mission-driven design,” creating an impressive portfolio of projects for clients who share their own values. Includes affordable and special needs housing, academic buildings and municipal facilities. Along the way, LMSA has received many honors, including the 2017 Architecture Firm Award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and 12 AIA Council on the Environment (COTE) Awards.
“Martha’s special ability to connect with people in an empathetic and encouraging way permeates our company, strengthening our connections to achieve our shared mission,” Stacey said.
Muisenberg Center for Arts and Culture (2017). Photo © Bruce Damonte
Maytum is a pioneer in integrating conservation and green design strategies—her expertise was key to her promotion to Fellow of the American Institute of Architects in 2001. Her Thoreau Sustainability Center (1997) was the first renovation project located in the newly established national park. The Fortress of San Francisco. It transformed a former Army hospital into the home of an environmental nonprofit. Other adaptive reuse projects include the Fort Mason Arts and Cultural Center (2017), which converted a historic dock building on the city’s waterfront into studio and gallery space.
She firmly believes that architecture should serve everyone, including people with disabilities. Her innovative solution for Sweetwater Spectrum Community in Sonoma, California (2013) established a replicable housing model for people with autism.
Sweet Water Spectrum (2013). Photo © Tim Griffith
However, Mettum’s architecture is only one side of her legacy. Her leadership extends to advocating for change within the industry. As COTE President in 2019, she championed an “Urgent and Sustained Climate Action” resolution calling for the rapid acceleration of efforts to decarbonize the built environment. The bill was overwhelmingly passed by members at the AIA Architecture Conference in Las Vegas that year and subsequently approved by the organization’s board of directors. “We believe it is important to raise this issue directly with members and express support in a transparent and visible way,” Mettum told RECORD at the time. The passage of this resolution sets the stage for the development of the AIA’s Design Excellence Framework, which outlines a holistic approach to architecture that encompasses the environment, health, and equity. Together, the resolution and the framework signal a significant realignment of organizational and professional priorities.
Above all, she will be remembered for her optimism and unwavering belief in the power of design. “Martha’s vision, guidance, and creativity to get things done have inspired many of us and helped us see and realize the positive changes possible,” said HKS Principal Julie Hiromoto, who works with Martha through AIA and COTE. “She helps us understand what we and architects can do to change the world and empower the next generation.”
Mettum is survived by Leddy, their children Anna and Andrew and two grandchildren.
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