Mariela embarked on her architectural journey in her hometown of Valparaiso, Chile, where she attended Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Valparaiso. Her early career focused on residential projects of various scales, including a 140,000 sq.ft. master plan for 504 units of affordable housing. From Chile, she moved to New Orleans to earn her Master of Architecture from Tulane University, where she focused on vernacular architecture in contemporary design. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Mariela actively participated in the rebuilding efforts for civic, commercial, and educational projects. These experiences allowed her to engage in all aspects of the architectural process, from programming to construction documents, and navigating the complexities of government-funded initiatives. Her passion for community-oriented projects was ignited during this time, notably through her involvement with the design and re-construction of the 36,000 sq.ft Rosenwald Recreational Center, which has deep historical roots in its surrounding community. Following her work in New Orleans, Mariela relocated to Seattle, where she successfully oversaw the programming and completion of the Miller Annex Childcare Center.

Since joining Studio VARA, Mariela has applied her diverse background and accumulated experiences to a range of projects, including high-end residential endeavors, educational facilities such as the German International School of Silicon Valley, and the Octavia R, S & U affordable multi-family initiative in collaboration with TNDC. Mariela’s journey across various places and cultures has provided her with a wealth of experience and a unique perspective which she brings to every project she undertakes.

Mariela enjoys finding commonalities and inspiration in the realms of architecture and art. In her free time, you can find Mariela working on her art projects and engaging in the cultural activities of San Francisco.

Zoe earned her bachelor’s degree in industrial design from San Francisco State University before continuing her education in interior design at the Academy of Art University. Her diverse background brings a unique perspective to Studio VARA, as she seamlessly integrates function and performance into the overall aesthetic of each project. Prior to joining the team, Zoe honed her skills at a few highly acclaimed interior design firms and earned the accolade of Decorator Showcase for Master Sitting Room in 2013.

Zoe thrives in the fast-paced environment of interior design, particularly excelling during the pivotal stages of space planning and furniture selection. She actively collaborates with her colleagues to deliver designs that seamlessly align with clients’ lifestyles and interests. Zoe’s design approach revolves around the concept of multidimensional well-being, and prioritizing her clients’ individual needs and preferences over passing trends. Not only does Zoe strive to meet her clients’ requirements and budget, but she goes the extra mile to bring the utmost comfort and luxury into their homes. With a keen eye for sourcing the finest furniture and accessories, she is often exploring design trade shows in search of the perfect pieces for her clients. Most recently, she has continued to hone her skills in lighting design and creating custom furniture, further refining her expertise in the field.

Outside of work, Zoe can be found at the local dog park enjoying time with her daughter and fur babies. She treasures the transformative experiences that traveling to foreign countries brings; however, nothing compares to the sentimental connection she feels when visiting her native homeland, Taiwan.

Graham, Studio VARA’s pioneering team member, has played an instrumental role in propelling the firm’s evolution from a small residential practice to a prominent, multidisciplinary studio. With over a decade of experience in residential architecture, Graham possesses extensive institutional knowledge that has fueled the firm’s growth. From inception to completion, his involvement in Studio VARA’s residential projects showcases a deep understanding of the construction process and the significance of collaborating closely with contractors and craftsmen.

As a project manager for high end residential projects, Graham also leads Studio VARA’s landscape design initiatives. Before joining the firm, he gained valuable experience in the design and construction realm while working for a distinguished landscape and construction company. During this time, Graham realized the similarities between landscape and architecture, both sharing an iterative design process and demanding extensive collaboration with consultant teams. By adopting an in-house approach, Studio VARA prioritizes the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, bringing a fresh perspective to the design studio. Graham’s true passion lies in crafting unique, seasonally changing experiences that inspire and bring joy to clients.

Graham’s collaborative approach and meticulous attention to detail make him a natural fit for leading Studio VARA’s largest residential projects and managing complex teams of contractors and consultants. His commitment to creating harmonious natural environments has fostered the growth of the firm’s cross-disciplinary landscape and architectural projects.

A native of Marin County, California, Graham studied architecture at the University of Southern California. With a passion for travel, he finds inspiration in exploring Latin American cities, cultures, and landscapes. Graham’s dedication to craft and quality extends beyond his professional life, as he has earned the reputation of being Studio VARA’s resident “office mixologist.”

With Graham’s leadership, Studio VARA continues to redefine the boundaries of architecture and landscape design, delivering extraordinary projects that leave a lasting impression on clients and users.

Christopher A. Roach AIA, MAUD, LEED AP is a San Francisco based architect and urbanist with over 25 years of experience in the profession and a deep commitment to both the craft and the intellectual ambition of architecture.  He is co-founder and principal of Studio VARA, a San Francisco-based practice working at the intersection of architecture, urbanism, and design, and has engaged with a wide range of projects types, from custom residences and affordable housing to commercial offices and academic institutions.  His professional work and academic design research extend beyond the boundaries of architecture to encompass an expanded field that ranges from exhibition design, graphic design, and art, to civic space, urban agency, and the design of practice. Christopher’s professional work has appeared in “Architecture Magazine,” “Architecture Record,” “Artweek,” “Dwell,” “San Francisco Magazine,” and in several books, including the 2008 Verlagshaus Braun compendium “1000x Architecture of the Americas,” Images Publishing’s 2017 edition “The American House: 100 Contemporary Homes,” and Loft Publication’s “2019 San Francisco Architects: Top Bay Area Studios.”