Of Here is a studio focused on the research and design of architecture through the rearrangement of materials found on site. We create spaces by combining vernacular and experimental building methodologies. The archaic yet contemporary methods are grounded in the universal desire to be in direct relationship to the land. 

The work is about viewing architecture from a material perspective. The practice perceives architecture not only in its present condition, but also its potential past and future states of existence. Architecture is defined as a composition of matter, moving in and out of states of human intention. Although its immediate condition presents itself as a space to house human life, its trajectory exists within a larger temporal context, affecting the mineral composition, fertility of soils, and habitat of all species.

Through this lens, the architectural conditions speak of the interconnectedness of land and life. Through a minimal rearrangement of materials found on site, Of Here envisions an architecture that tends to the calibrated balance of an existing terrain.






Laura Stargala

Laura is the founder and director of Of Here. She is an architect and researcher with experience in design and construction. Stargala graduated with distinction in a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Science from Cornell University. Prior to forming Of Here, Laura worked for Pezo von Ellrichshausen, Junya Ishigami and Associates, Herzog and DeMeuron, and Davies Toews, among others. She has won several awards including the  Eidlitz Fellowship, Center for Architecture Eleanor Allwork Scholarship, Eschweiler Prize for Merit and Distinction, AIA Yann Weymouth Graduate Scholarship, Lyceum Travel Fellowship, Jerry A. Tishman Scholarship, and the Helen Fagan Tyler Graduate Fellowship. Laura has taught as a teaching assistant at Cornell University in the Architecture, Art and Planning department. She recently held a Dry Stone Workshop at the AA School of Architecture and has been invited as a guest critic at the Bartlett School of Architecture at UCL. Currently, she is investigating dry stone construction as she works with stone masons in the UK, and is completing other built projects with available resources. She is a registered architect and member of the American Institute of Architects.