# Elliot March: Designing Spaces That Belong How architecture and environment shape MAWD's holistic approach - **Source:** [Design MilkArchitecture, Architectural Designs, and House Designs | Design Milk](https://brifing.si/source/5d8362a6-0dbb-41cc-9b0e-4e8cac0c9318) - **Published:** 2026-09-18 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/a311f672-a200-4b40-b627-6cbba48a7e9e ## From Edinburgh to MAWD Elliot March co-founded MAWD | March and White Design in 2010 with James White, whom he met at the University of Edinburgh. Their shared curiosity about architecture and design led to a partnership that evolved from working at larger practices to establishing their own firm. MAWD began as a luxury British interior design firm and has since grown into a globally recognized practice, completing projects across hospitality, residential, and yachting sectors. ## Letting the Space Lead March’s design philosophy emphasizes allowing the architecture, location, light, materials, and daily life of a space to guide the creative process. Rather than imposing a predetermined aesthetic, he seeks to create designs that feel organic and rooted in their environment. This approach ensures that the final result feels like it naturally belongs to the space, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. ## Inspiration from Wynwood March draws inspiration from Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, particularly its murals and industrial backdrop. The contrast between raw materials and artistic expression informs his work on projects like The Cloud One Hotel Residences Wynwood. He aims to create designs that feel connected to Wynwood’s vibrant history and creative energy, using materials like exposed concrete, wild oak, and bronze to reflect the neighborhood’s character. ## Paso Robles and Yucca Valley The wineries around Paso Robles, California, inspire March with their harmonious relationship to the landscape. He admires how local materials like stone, timber, and concrete create a grounded, tactile feel. Similarly, Yucca Valley’s shifting colors and shadows at sunset remind him to slow down and notice details, reinforcing his belief that the best ideas often come from observing what is already present. ## San Sebastián and Taos Pueblo March finds inspiration in the Parte Vieja quarter of San Sebastián, Spain, where layers of history and character-rich details coexist organically. Taos Pueblo in New Mexico moves him with its direct, meaningful architecture that grows from its environment and materials. These locations remind him of the importance of designing spaces that feel authentic and rooted in their cultural and natural contexts. ## The Greenwich Project The Greenwich in Manhattan’s Financial District marked a pivotal moment for March and MAWD. Invited by the late architect Rafael Viñoly, March relocated from London to New York to lead the interiors. The project allowed MAWD to bring superyacht design elements into a residential setting, exemplified by the Noir Saint Laurent marble with subtle nautical qualities. It represented both a creative and personal milestone for March. ## Water Street Tampa The forthcoming residences at Water Street Tampa reflect March’s focus on integrating architecture with lifestyle. Inspired by Tampa’s indoor-outdoor rhythm, the design incorporates portals, louvers, and courtyards into the interiors. The tropical landscape encouraged a more expressive use of color and materials, showcasing how location can push designers toward unexpected and innovative solutions. ## Designing for the Future Projects like Edgeworth in West Palm Beach and Lantern House in New York illustrate March’s ability to design for both the present and the future. Edgeworth aligns with West Palm Beach’s transformation into a year-round destination, while Lantern House brings warmth to Heatherwick Studio’s industrial architecture. These projects highlight March’s skill in creating spaces that feel timeless yet forward-looking. ## Sources covering this story - https://design-milk.com/friday-five-elliot-march-mawd/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._