Esther Margulies

Esther Margulies is a **Professor of Practice** and **Director of Graduate Programs in Landscape Architecture + Urbanism** at the University of Southern California (USC) School of Architecture. She teaches courses in landscape architecture practice, construction, and design-research, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration across architecture, urban design, and civil engineering. Her work focuses on equitable urban development, public realm design, and innovative nature-based solutions for underserved communities.

**Education:** B.S. in Landscape Architecture from Cornell University, and M.L.A. from Harvard University Graduate School of Design. She is a licensed Landscape Architect in California and Massachusetts.

**Research & Initiatives:** A core member of the **USC Urban Trees Initiative**, addressing urban forest equity in Los Angeles. Founder of **The Office of the Designed Landscape (OotDL)**, leading award-winning projects in public transit, education, and hospitality spaces. Advocate for the Los Angeles River revitalization through her role with the **Los Angeles River Public Art Project**, and serves as a West Los Angeles Planning Commissioner.

**Service:** USC School of Architecture Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Liaison; advisor to the National Organization of Minority Architects student chapter.

Her teaching and research integrate policy impact and environmental resilience, with recent work on climate change resilience in school parks through vertical workshops.