Ellen Moriarty

Ellen brings a proactive, client-centered approach to her role as a Principal in the Higher Ed practice, blending her extensive experience in educational architecture with a deep love for storytelling. With a background in both PK-12 schools and higher education spaces across Texas, she thrives on guiding clients through the creative process — helping them explore their needs, dreams and history, then weaving it all together into a thoughtful design that not only meets their goals but reflects their vision.

For Ellen, architecture is more than just buildings; it’s about the stories they tell. “I love storytelling,” she says. Everything has a language. Speaking and writing, of course, but also music. Painting. Architecture. Weave that through time, and you have a narrative. I understand buildings best — and convey design best — when I can grasp those stories.”

Her passion for educational design is fueled by collective memories of early life and imagining the experiences in the projects she leads. “The early stages of life are so critical in a person’s development,” she explains, “and every educational setting has the potential to make an impact.”

Ellen's passion for storytelling continues outside of work as well, where she enjoys renovating old homes with her family — listening to their stories and reimagining the space for the next generation.