Meet Larissa Thompson | Architectural Designer + Owner of The Studio Ltd.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Larissa Thompson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Larissa, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
“You will never cross the ocean until you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.”

This quote is meaningful to me in many ways. I’ve always been drawn to the ocean. For me; It’s a place of connection, relaxation, and imagination. I feel endlessly inspired when I’m near the water. It’s a humbling experience to be in the presence of something so vastly endless, powerful, and beautiful. I get lost in thought & feel captivated by an urgency to absorb as much of this planet as possible. All the culture, music, food, architecture, art, & history. There’s so much of the world to see and experience! The ocean beckons all these questions; What else is out there? What am I missing? What will I have to give up, if anything, to find it? Being near the ocean is like an awakening of all the senses. And so, the notion of abandoning that beloved, safe, and beautiful point where the water meets the shore, is terrifying and yet so invigorating. The fear is fleeting. And disappears the moment you take that first step toward whatever makes you, complete.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m passionate about the built environment. I believe what surrounds us has a profound effect on our mood, our wellness, and our success. So I’m really excited about my recent transition from corporate architecture, to residential, because it gives me opportunity to really enhance and curate people’s most intimate spaces. Connection to people is so important and one of my favorite things about the work I do. And with my clients, it’s the energy between us that makes or breaks a project. I believe the space we call home is the most personal expression of ourselves aside from our actions and clothing, As a designer, it’s an intimate role being invited into the hearts and homes of my clients and I feel privileged to have the opportunity. I think approaching my brand and business with the mindset that it’s always about the people is what sets me apart from other designers. Keeping my focus on the humans inhabiting these special spaces, allows me to create a feel that is unique to their story.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
There’s so much to love about Miami! But if I only had one week my must-haves list would be: ~shopping in the Design District (swoon!)
~sun bathing in south beach (7th avenue)
~indulging in some of the best ethnic foods on Espanola Way
~sipping the black-salt rimmed margaritas at “Call Me Cuban”
~touring the iconic Versace Mansion
~checking out the local architecture (little havana has the coolest historical bungalows)

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I dedicate this Shoutout to my husband, Kevin, who is without a doubt my biggest fan. He’s been so supportive of my career and always encourages my crazy ideas! Our partnership is everything. I’d also like to give props to my lifelong friends and college roommates (Adriana Fernandez, Eva Fernandez, and Vera Zacker)  who are endlessly creative and dedicated to their craft. They started their own firm a few years ago and their journey inspired me to do the same.

Website: www.thestudioltd.com

Instagram: @the_studio_ltd

Linkedin: Larissa Thompson, LEED AP, Assoc AIA

Facebook: The Studio Ltd (@thestudioltd.detroitdesign)