Dr. Esther Margulies

Biography

Esther Margulies is a Professor of Practice and Director of Graduate Programs in Landscape Architecture and Urbanism at the University of Southern California's School of Architecture. She teaches courses focused on landscape architecture practice, site materials, construction, and interdisciplinary studios. Margulies is involved in the USC Urban Trees Initiative, addressing equity in Los Angeles' urban forest and creating evidence-based tools for nature-based solutions in underserved communities. As a licensed Landscape Architect, she founded the Office of Designed Landscape and has led award-winning design and planning projects across various sectors. She advocates for the revitalization of the Los Angeles River and serves on the board of the Los Angeles River Public Art Project. In addition, Margulies acts as USC School of Architecture's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Liaison and advises the National Organization of Minority Architects student chapter. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from Cornell University and a Master of Landscape Architecture from Harvard University Graduate School of Design.

Research Interests