1. Marsha Ann Maytum obituary
2. Marsha Ann Maytum death announcement.
Marsha Ann Maytum, Architect and Advocate for Environmental and Social Causes, Passes Away at Age 69
Marsha Ann Maytum, the founding principal of Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects (LMSA), sadly passed away on February 10 in San Francisco at the age of 69. Maytum will be remembered for her significant contributions to the field of architecture, as well as her tireless advocacy for environmental and social causes.
Maytum’s passing comes after a brave three-year battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). She leaves behind her husband and business partner, William Leddy, her children Anna and Andrew, and two grandchildren.
Kim Gould, an architect and longtime friend of Maytum, expressed in a statement the architect’s unwavering commitment to using design as a means to address the pressing challenges of our time, specifically the climate emergency and social justice. Gould described Maytum’s leadership style as quietly tenacious, which greatly influenced others in the industry. Maytum’s humility and focus on the work itself, rather than seeking attention, allowed her to create meaningful change through her designs and collaborations.
Marsha Ann Maytum was born in 1953 and spent her childhood between the Bay Area, New York, and London. She dedicated much of the 1970s to studying architecture at the University of Oregon and the Royal Academy in Denmark. It was during her time at the University of Oregon that she met her future husband and business partner, William “Bill” Leddy.
Following their graduation, Maytum and Leddy worked at Tanner & Vandine, an architecture firm in San Francisco. It was there that they met Richard Stacy, and together they formed Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects in 2001. Their practice focused on mission-driven projects, including education, affordable housing, and civic initiatives. Maytum’s dedication to sustainable and inclusive design was evident in her work, such as her advocacy for preserving and repurposing existing buildings and her design of the Sweetwater Spectrum in Sonoma, California, a residence tailored to individuals with Autism.
Throughout her career, Maytum and LMSA received numerous accolades, including 175 regional, national, and international design awards, notably the AIA COTE Top Ten Awards. She actively participated in conferences and climate and disability justice demonstrations across the country. Maytum and her husband co-authored a book titled “Purpose: A Guide to Mission Driven Design,” which was published last year. In addition to her design work, Maytum was deeply involved in politics and collaborated closely with the AIA, regularly meeting with legislators to discuss topics related to design, climate, health, and community.
Carl Elefante, former president of the AIA and a member of Quinn Evans, praised the practice Maytum helped build, considering it a model for other firms to follow. Elefante admired Maytum’s openness, curiosity, and determination to create spaces that embody noble ideals. He highlighted Maytum’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling the obligations of the architecture profession and her perseverance in achieving meaningful outcomes.
Marsha Ann Maytum’s legacy will continue to inspire architects and designers to use their skills and passion to address the pressing challenges of our time. Her impact on the architectural community and her dedication to sustainable, inclusive design will be remembered for years to come.
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1. “Marsha Ann Maytum obituary”
2. “Marsha Ann Maytum life story”.
