Innovation, intentionality work wonders in workforce housing with Emma Russell Finneran, Designer When designing interiors for workforce housing tighter budgets don’t equate with compromises in materials or aesthetics. Quite the contrary – we use the same tried and true process that we use for multifamily projects,...
Where it all begins with Corey Buss, Senior Project Designer | Architecture Great design starts with a compelling story that’s unique to each project. Where does the story start? Before concept development, every design team first explores the project’s existing environment. We visit local restaurants, parks,...
MCA’s new ‘Built to Spec’ booth at the recent InterFace Student Housing conference made a huge splash with energized, curious crowds clamoring to check out our exciting and innovative student housing furnishings solution. Surrounded by furniture unlike anything found in a catalog, and fresh off...
CHICAGO (April 7, 2025) — National commercial interiors firm Mary Cook Associates (MCA), together with furniture manufacturer Morgan Li, today announced the launch of ‘Built to Spec,’ a first-to-market furnishings solution for student housing developments. The collaboration brings together MCA’s proven expertise in student housing interiors...
Shaw a global flooring provider and valued vendor recently invited MCA to send a participant to their Contract Development Program. Shaw developed the new program to offer specialized development training to young designers in the industry with a focus on non-design professional skills that foster...
Tara Houston, Senior Project Designer | Interiors Students at Notre Dame are moving into The 87, a new off-campus apartment community developed by Toll Brothers Campus Living and designed by MCA. The 87 celebrates the University’s most iconic historic elements within a distinct and sophisticated vibe. By...
The Show’s Over. Now, what? 5 Takeaways from the InterFace Student Housing Conference Sara Murray, Senior Designer | Innovation The recent InterFace Student Housing Conference buzzed with the energy of friends and colleagues reconnecting. Stimulating presentations and discussions filled the airwaves. Key takeaways gleaned from the event shed...
Senior Designer Sara Murray Takes on Innovation A lot of firms dabble in innovation. Leading firms place it front and center. At Mary Cook Associates (MCA) we’ve included innovation in our core values for over 30 years. Now we’re taking it out for a fresh spin...
We recently sat down with Katie Schelinski, Director| Design and Studio Lead, to learn more about her approach to Significant & Relevant Ornamentation, the last of the 7 Fundamentals. Q: What do you say to people who think ornamentation is the same as decorating? A: Significant and...
This spring’s cadre of Gen Z college graduates are hitting the workforce and housing market. Highly individualistic, Gen Zers want to work and live in environments that match their values. Successfully reaching them requires delivering an authentic brand experience that’s rooted in technology and social...