About the Studio
We combine the disciplines of architecture and interior design to translate our client’s dreams into a unified vision, then see it through until it becomes reality.
Hi, we’re Tom and Leighann Markalunas. We’ve been privileged to do this a long time and now we have over 30 years of experience in luxury residential space with projects spanning from the mountains of Colorado to the Carolina coast. We’ve learned a thing or two over the decades, but we always feel like our next project will be our best yet; that keeps us invested in our work.
Philosophy
Holistic Approach
We have learned from experience that the best projects have one grand vision, from site planning to architecture to the interior and finishes. The process is smoother, the design is cohesive, the product is better, the clients are happier. We don’t want our clients to have to navigate multiple creative processes with multiple vendors throughout the already complicated endeavor of building a home. In other words, we like to start at the beginning and end at the end.
The Perfect Balance of Listening and Guidance
Along with the craft of architecture and design itself, guiding clients through the process is an art as well. We believe that there is such a thing as objectively good design and that it is definable. We also understand that clients have ideas, dreams, and goals that are the foundation of every project. Our job is one of translation: our client’s dreams into good design. We pride ourselves not just on our finished designs, but on being easy to work with along the way. Here is another crazy belief we have: this should be fun!
Idealistic and Practical
We are unashamedly idealistic about the power of design. We go so far as to think it can improve the lives of our fellow human beings. That’s why we believe that the minutiae matters. But that idealism is solidly rooted in the personal and practical. We are not beholden to some theoretical, abstraction of an architectural ideal. The very best architecture is rooted in the actual lives of our clients and their families. We design for the people.
I have worked with Tom and Leighann for over 20 years on multiple development projects and custom homes in Colorado and the Carolinas. Their collective talent and quality of work is exceptional and they are a pleasure to work with throughout the design and construction process. Most importantly, I have always appreciated the willingness to listen throughout the creative process, making the entire experience fun and collaborative.
Rick, Client
Our
Services
Site Analysis & Planning
Understanding the client’s dream, analyzing the context of the site, gaining insight into the vision for the land, and reaching an alignment between home the natural surroundings.
Architecture & Interior Design
Conceptualizing a style, finding balance in the design program, infusing the substance into the vision, and fostering the evolution in the process.
Construction Management
Shepherding the collaboration of trade crafts, working with the details of construction, establishing the lines of communication, and managing the coordination from start to finish. The design phase is never finished… until you walk through the door.
Our
Founders
Leighann & Tom Markalunas
Leighann and Tom Markalunas are the founding principals and their shared vision is the centerpiece of Markalunas Architecture + Design. Architects, with a love for detail, they combine a deep knowledge of crafting custom residential homes for the most discerning clients. An eye for design, a passion for curated spaces, and a natural inclination to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary has guided their professional journey. Parents, partners, and optimists; their story centers around family and craft. From their time together in college, their early years in large firms, to starting a small residential firm in Colorado, and now their home and studio in Greenville, SC - they have embraced good design, personal attention, detail, and an idealistic vision.
CONTACT
Leighann Markalunas AIA
Principal
leighann@markalunas.design
864.630.4349
Tom Markalunas AIA
Principal
tom@markalunas.design
864.420.8428
Office Information
1211 Pendleton Street, Suite 201
Greenville, SC 29611
864.301.5501