Curiosity drives us to explore and learn. It opens the door for our imaginations and our technical expertise to work together, and it allows us to wonder, “What if?” As we gathered to celebrate 2025 and welcome the adventures of 2026, we challenged our team to engage their creative curiosity on a familiar object.

The task: reimagine the Mayer/Reed logo as a holiday gift—in just two hours.

The activity encouraged us to flex our creative talents and experiment with materials and processes available in and around the studio. The instructions were purposely ambiguous: be curious and play.

The studio was soon buzzing with energy as our team, fueled by sugary holiday treats and music, began sketching, painting, building, filming, photographing and animating. Exploration awakens a bit of joy in us all.

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Cheers to a prosperous year filled with abundant curiosity and moments of discovery.

Mayer/Reed is pleased to announce the promotion of four team members whose leadership and dedication continue to elevate our firm. 

Landscape Architect Shannon Simms has been promoted to principal. In this role, she co-leads the firm’s urban design and landscape architecture group alongside Principal Jeramie Shane. Known for her big-picture thinking and ability to bring clarity to complexity, Shannon is a respected voice in public open space design with particular expertise in multimodal streetscapes. She is currently engaged in efforts to reimagine downtown Portland as a livable neighborhood and strengthen its relationship with the Willamette River. Her recent projects include the Green Loop Concepts and West End Street Plazas in Portland, Oregon, and the Riverwalk in St. Helens, Oregon.   

Landscape Architect Michael O’Brien has been promoted to associate. With more than 30 years of professional experience, Michael brings finely honed design and management expertise and is valued for his mentorship of emerging landscape architects. His sensitivity to site context, ecological function and human experience informs all of his work. Michael’s recent projects include OHSU’s Doernbecher Children’s Hospital expansion and Errol Heights Park in Southeast Portland.  

Senior Visual Communications Designer Margaret Drew has been promoted to associate. Margaret is recognized for her approach to planning and designing inclusive wayfinding systems that inform, guide and connect people across differences in language and ability. Her recent work includes leading signage standards for Multnomah County Library’s 15-branch system.  

Content Coordinator/Editor Stefanie Warmouth has been named associate in recognition of her vital role in quality control and promoting Mayer/Reed’s story and culture. Her copyediting and communications expertise upholds the firm’s standard of excellence. Stefanie’s recent initiatives include managing the firm’s social media presence and project-managing our 2025 Portland Winter Light Festival installation at Mill Ends Park. 

We are proud to recognize growth from within and grateful for the contributions of these four individuals.