People

Walter Marin, NCARB

Senior Principal
Learn more about Walter

Walter Marin was born in Latin America but raised in the heart of New York. The son of an immigrant cabinetmaker, he was raised with an appreciation for craftsmanship that led to his life-long love of the built environment. He completed a BS/BA in Architecture in 1982 and worked with well-known architectural design firms including the Howard Golden firm prior to establishing Marin Associates in 1985. Upon obtaining his architectural certification, Walter converted his growing firm into Marin Architects. Supported by Walter’s keen business sense and creative aptitude, the firm has since developed a strong roster of repeat clientele and a sterling reputation. Ever community-minded, Walter gives back by serving as the Vice Chair of The National Hispanic Business Group and the Bronx Community College Foundation Board. Walter is NCARB-certified.

Walter Marin was born in Latin America but raised in the heart of New York. The son of an immigrant cabinetmaker, he was raised with an appreciation for craftsmanship that led to his life-long love of the built environment. He completed a BS/BA in Architecture in 1982 and worked with well-known architectural design firms including the Howard Golden firm prior to establishing Marin Associates in 1985. Upon obtaining his architectural certification, Walter converted his growing firm into Marin Architects. Supported by Walter’s keen business sense and creative aptitude, the firm has since developed a strong roster of repeat clientele and a sterling reputation. Ever community-minded, Walter gives back by serving as the Vice Chair of The National Hispanic Business Group and the Bronx Community College Foundation Board. Walter is NCARB-certified.

Walter Marin, NCARB

Senior Principal
Learn more about Walter

Walter Marin was born in Latin America but raised in the heart of New York. The son of an immigrant cabinetmaker, he was raised with an appreciation for craftsmanship that led to his life-long love of the built environment. He completed a BS/BA in Architecture in 1982 and worked with well-known architectural design firms including the Howard Golden firm prior to establishing Marin Associates in 1985. Upon obtaining his architectural certification, Walter converted his growing firm into Marin Architects. Supported by Walter’s keen business sense and creative aptitude, the firm has since developed a strong roster of repeat clientele and a sterling reputation. Ever community-minded, Walter gives back by serving as the Vice Chair of The National Hispanic Business Group and the Bronx Community College Foundation Board. Walter is NCARB-certified.

Walter Marin was born in Latin America but raised in the heart of New York. The son of an immigrant cabinetmaker, he was raised with an appreciation for craftsmanship that led to his life-long love of the built environment. He completed a BS/BA in Architecture in 1982 and worked with well-known architectural design firms including the Howard Golden firm prior to establishing Marin Associates in 1985. Upon obtaining his architectural certification, Walter converted his growing firm into Marin Architects. Supported by Walter’s keen business sense and creative aptitude, the firm has since developed a strong roster of repeat clientele and a sterling reputation. Ever community-minded, Walter gives back by serving as the Vice Chair of The National Hispanic Business Group and the Bronx Community College Foundation Board. Walter is NCARB-certified.

Neka Highland, RA

Principal
Learn more about Neka

As Partner for Marin Architects, Neka oversees and coordinates all phases of a project and its associated trades. Coming from a background in hospitality, Neka has relished the opportunity to extend her expertise into new areas, noting: “I have learned far more from the diversity of the projects we take on than I ever would have learned focusing on hospitality alone.” Neka began working for Marin Architects shortly after her graduation from Pratt Institute with a B.Arch in 2008. She manages the Louisiana division of the firm.

As Partner for Marin Architects, Neka oversees and coordinates all phases of a project and its associated trades. Coming from a background in hospitality, Neka has relished the opportunity to extend her expertise into new areas, noting: “I have learned far more from the diversity of the projects we take on than I ever would have learned focusing on hospitality alone.” Neka began working for Marin Architects shortly after her graduation from Pratt Institute with a B.Arch in 2008. She manages the Louisiana division of the firm.

Neka Highland, RA

Principal
Learn more about Neka

As Partner for Marin Architects, Neka oversees and coordinates all phases of a project and its associated trades. Coming from a background in hospitality, Neka has relished the opportunity to extend her expertise into new areas, noting: “I have learned far more from the diversity of the projects we take on than I ever would have learned focusing on hospitality alone.” Neka began working for Marin Architects shortly after her graduation from Pratt Institute with a B.Arch in 2008. She manages the Louisiana division of the firm.

As Partner for Marin Architects, Neka oversees and coordinates all phases of a project and its associated trades. Coming from a background in hospitality, Neka has relished the opportunity to extend her expertise into new areas, noting: “I have learned far more from the diversity of the projects we take on than I ever would have learned focusing on hospitality alone.” Neka began working for Marin Architects shortly after her graduation from Pratt Institute with a B.Arch in 2008. She manages the Louisiana division of the firm.

Kathleen Riopel, Ra

Project Architect
Learn more about Kathleen

Having joined Marin Architects in 2015, Kathleen brings a background in architecture to her role as Project Architect. Skilled in preparing construction documents and developing construction drawings, she combines a creative eye with an analytical mindset to ensure effective coordination of all aspects of a project, and facilitates collaboration between clients, associates and consultants. Kathleen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from New Jersey Institute of Technology.

Having joined Marin Architects in 2015, Kathleen brings a background in architecture to her role as Project Architect. Skilled in preparing construction documents and developing construction drawings, she combines a creative eye with an analytical mindset to ensure effective coordination of all aspects of a project, and facilitates collaboration between clients, associates and consultants. Kathleen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from New Jersey Institute of Technology.

Kathleen Riopel, Ra

Project Architect
Learn more about Kathleen

Having joined Marin Architects in 2015, Kathleen brings a background in architecture to her role as Project Architect. Skilled in preparing construction documents and developing construction drawings, she combines a creative eye with an analytical mindset to ensure effective coordination of all aspects of a project, and facilitates collaboration between clients, associates and consultants. Kathleen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from New Jersey Institute of Technology.

Having joined Marin Architects in 2015, Kathleen brings a background in architecture to her role as Project Architect. Skilled in preparing construction documents and developing construction drawings, she combines a creative eye with an analytical mindset to ensure effective coordination of all aspects of a project, and facilitates collaboration between clients, associates and consultants. Kathleen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from New Jersey Institute of Technology.

Fatih Ergun

Design Director
Learn more about Fatih

Originally from Turkey, Fatih joined Marin Architects in 2009 after impressing Walter with a portfolio that showcased a “star in the making”. He combines a keen creative eye with expertise in visual design and photography to take Marin’s projects to the next level. Fatih strives to make a positive contribution on the city through architecture, and relishes seeing the impact of his work on the New York City skyline. Fatih holds a degree from Architect Sinan Fine Arts University in Istanbul.

Originally from Turkey, Fatih joined Marin Architects in 2009 after impressing Walter with a portfolio that showcased a “star in the making”. He combines a keen creative eye with expertise in visual design and photography to take Marin’s projects to the next level. Fatih strives to make a positive contribution on the city through architecture, and relishes seeing the impact of his work on the New York City skyline. Fatih holds a degree from Architect Sinan Fine Arts University in Istanbul.

Fatih Ergun

Design Director
Learn more about Fatih

Originally from Turkey, Fatih joined Marin Architects in 2009 after impressing Walter with a portfolio that showcased a “star in the making”. He combines a keen creative eye with expertise in visual design and photography to take Marin’s projects to the next level. Fatih strives to make a positive contribution on the city through architecture, and relishes seeing the impact of his work on the New York City skyline. Fatih holds a degree from Architect Sinan Fine Arts University in Istanbul.

Originally from Turkey, Fatih joined Marin Architects in 2009 after impressing Walter with a portfolio that showcased a “star in the making”. He combines a keen creative eye with expertise in visual design and photography to take Marin’s projects to the next level. Fatih strives to make a positive contribution on the city through architecture, and relishes seeing the impact of his work on the New York City skyline. Fatih holds a degree from Architect Sinan Fine Arts University in Istanbul.

Martha Romero

Executive Administrator
Learn more about Martha

Having joined the company over 10 years ago, Martha works closely with principal Walter Marin and the accounting team, providing essential administrative and accounting support. Martha’s energetic, dynamic and resourceful personality makes her the go-to person for anything related to keeping the office running seamlessly. Her well-rounded set of skills brings great value to our team.

Having joined the company over 10 years ago, Martha works closely with principal Walter Marin and the accounting team, providing essential administrative and accounting support. Martha’s energetic, dynamic and resourceful personality makes her the go-to person for anything related to keeping the office running seamlessly. Her well-rounded set of skills brings great value to our team.

Martha Romero

Executive Administrator
Learn more about Martha

Having joined the company over 10 years ago, Martha works closely with principal Walter Marin and the accounting team, providing essential administrative and accounting support. Martha’s energetic, dynamic and resourceful personality makes her the go-to person for anything related to keeping the office running seamlessly. Her well-rounded set of skills brings great value to our team.

Having joined the company over 10 years ago, Martha works closely with principal Walter Marin and the accounting team, providing essential administrative and accounting support. Martha’s energetic, dynamic and resourceful personality makes her the go-to person for anything related to keeping the office running seamlessly. Her well-rounded set of skills brings great value to our team.

Katya Bordyugova

Project Manager
Learn more about Katya

Katja joined Marin Architects in the spring of 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience in working on large-scale projects that empower her to navigate through her project goals seamlessly within Marin. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Voronezh State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning.

With over 15 years of experience in the field, Katja boasts a remarkable track record of successful design initiatives. She has worked on a diverse range of projects, including residential, cultural, sports, civic, and research buildings, both in the United States and her home country of Russia.

Katja's dedication to her work is matched by her passion for New York's vibrant cultural offerings. When she's not immersed in architectural endeavors, you'll find her spending quality time with her family or indulging in the city's numerous cultural pursuits. Whether it's exploring art exhibitions, attending theater performances, or discovering hidden gems, Katja cherishes the enriching experiences New York City has to offer.

Katja joined Marin Architects in the spring of 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience in working on large-scale projects that empower her to navigate through her project goals seamlessly within Marin. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Voronezh State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning.

With over 15 years of experience in the field, Katja boasts a remarkable track record of successful design initiatives. She has worked on a diverse range of projects, including residential, cultural, sports, civic, and research buildings, both in the United States and her home country of Russia.

Katja's dedication to her work is matched by her passion for New York's vibrant cultural offerings. When she's not immersed in architectural endeavors, you'll find her spending quality time with her family or indulging in the city's numerous cultural pursuits. Whether it's exploring art exhibitions, attending theater performances, or discovering hidden gems, Katja cherishes the enriching experiences New York City has to offer.

Katya Bordyugova

Project Manager
Learn more about Katya

Katja joined Marin Architects in the spring of 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience in working on large-scale projects that empower her to navigate through her project goals seamlessly within Marin. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Voronezh State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning.

With over 15 years of experience in the field, Katja boasts a remarkable track record of successful design initiatives. She has worked on a diverse range of projects, including residential, cultural, sports, civic, and research buildings, both in the United States and her home country of Russia.

Katja's dedication to her work is matched by her passion for New York's vibrant cultural offerings. When she's not immersed in architectural endeavors, you'll find her spending quality time with her family or indulging in the city's numerous cultural pursuits. Whether it's exploring art exhibitions, attending theater performances, or discovering hidden gems, Katja cherishes the enriching experiences New York City has to offer.

Katja joined Marin Architects in the spring of 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience in working on large-scale projects that empower her to navigate through her project goals seamlessly within Marin. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Voronezh State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning.

With over 15 years of experience in the field, Katja boasts a remarkable track record of successful design initiatives. She has worked on a diverse range of projects, including residential, cultural, sports, civic, and research buildings, both in the United States and her home country of Russia.

Katja's dedication to her work is matched by her passion for New York's vibrant cultural offerings. When she's not immersed in architectural endeavors, you'll find her spending quality time with her family or indulging in the city's numerous cultural pursuits. Whether it's exploring art exhibitions, attending theater performances, or discovering hidden gems, Katja cherishes the enriching experiences New York City has to offer.

Andrea Acuna

Project Manager
Learn more about Andrea

Andrea joined Marin Architects in 2016 with an extensive professional background in public works projects such as high-value sustainable buildings and transportation facilities in the Bay Area. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley with a focus on sustainable design. As a Project Manager at Marin, Andrea develops schematic and construction drawings with acute attention to detail. Her latest focus has been working on Marin’s new commercial and residential projects, which has involved becoming familiar with various state and municipality codes for successful project completion. With a keen understanding of client and project needs, Andrea is advancing her career towards becoming a licensed architect and adding value to constructed environments.

Andrea joined Marin Architects in 2016 with an extensive professional background in public works projects such as high-value sustainable buildings and transportation facilities in the Bay Area. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley with a focus on sustainable design. As a Project Manager at Marin, Andrea develops schematic and construction drawings with acute attention to detail. Her latest focus has been working on Marin’s new commercial and residential projects, which has involved becoming familiar with various state and municipality codes for successful project completion. With a keen understanding of client and project needs, Andrea is advancing her career towards becoming a licensed architect and adding value to constructed environments.

Andrea Acuna

Project Manager
Learn more about Andrea

Andrea joined Marin Architects in 2016 with an extensive professional background in public works projects such as high-value sustainable buildings and transportation facilities in the Bay Area. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley with a focus on sustainable design. As a Project Manager at Marin, Andrea develops schematic and construction drawings with acute attention to detail. Her latest focus has been working on Marin’s new commercial and residential projects, which has involved becoming familiar with various state and municipality codes for successful project completion. With a keen understanding of client and project needs, Andrea is advancing her career towards becoming a licensed architect and adding value to constructed environments.

Andrea joined Marin Architects in 2016 with an extensive professional background in public works projects such as high-value sustainable buildings and transportation facilities in the Bay Area. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley with a focus on sustainable design. As a Project Manager at Marin, Andrea develops schematic and construction drawings with acute attention to detail. Her latest focus has been working on Marin’s new commercial and residential projects, which has involved becoming familiar with various state and municipality codes for successful project completion. With a keen understanding of client and project needs, Andrea is advancing her career towards becoming a licensed architect and adding value to constructed environments.

Leydi Nunez

Director of Municipal Compliance
Learn more about Leydi

In her role as Director of Municipal Compliance, Leydi is responsible for generating and filing Alteration Type 1, 2, and 3 applications, files new buildings, reviews drawings and attends meetings with plan examiners, provides project tracking, as well as works with and does filing with the Landmarks Preservation Commission, Office of Environmental Remediation, FDNY, and DOB Now. Though she has 9 years of experience under her belt, Leydi is working in an architecture firm for the first time and says she’s enjoying learning about her work from an architectural perspective. Leydi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurial Studies from Paul Smith’s College.

In her role as Director of Municipal Compliance, Leydi is responsible for generating and filing Alteration Type 1, 2, and 3 applications, files new buildings, reviews drawings and attends meetings with plan examiners, provides project tracking, as well as works with and does filing with the Landmarks Preservation Commission, Office of Environmental Remediation, FDNY, and DOB Now. Though she has 9 years of experience under her belt, Leydi is working in an architecture firm for the first time and says she’s enjoying learning about her work from an architectural perspective. Leydi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurial Studies from Paul Smith’s College.

Leydi Nunez

Director of Municipal Compliance
Learn more about Leydi

In her role as Director of Municipal Compliance, Leydi is responsible for generating and filing Alteration Type 1, 2, and 3 applications, files new buildings, reviews drawings and attends meetings with plan examiners, provides project tracking, as well as works with and does filing with the Landmarks Preservation Commission, Office of Environmental Remediation, FDNY, and DOB Now. Though she has 9 years of experience under her belt, Leydi is working in an architecture firm for the first time and says she’s enjoying learning about her work from an architectural perspective. Leydi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurial Studies from Paul Smith’s College.

In her role as Director of Municipal Compliance, Leydi is responsible for generating and filing Alteration Type 1, 2, and 3 applications, files new buildings, reviews drawings and attends meetings with plan examiners, provides project tracking, as well as works with and does filing with the Landmarks Preservation Commission, Office of Environmental Remediation, FDNY, and DOB Now. Though she has 9 years of experience under her belt, Leydi is working in an architecture firm for the first time and says she’s enjoying learning about her work from an architectural perspective. Leydi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurial Studies from Paul Smith’s College.

Sherly Poluscar

Project Administrator, Municipal Compliance and Expediting
Learn more about Sherly

Sherly brings 15+ years of experience within the Department of Buildings unit to the firm. Prior to Marin, she worked for several architectural firms where she honed her skills as a Project Manager of Municipal Compliance. Sherly oversees filing for all city agencies, approving documents, and dismissing violations. Her persevering work ethic allows the firm to stay on top of projects as the DOB is constantly evolving. Originally from Haiti, she moved to New York at young age. She worked hard to earn her Bachelor’s in Business and Sociology from the City College of NY. Sherly enjoys spending time with loved ones, working out, and learning to cook a variety of dishes.

Sherly brings 15+ years of experience within the Department of Buildings unit to the firm. Prior to Marin, she worked for several architectural firms where she honed her skills as a Project Manager of Municipal Compliance. Sherly oversees filing for all city agencies, approving documents, and dismissing violations. Her persevering work ethic allows the firm to stay on top of projects as the DOB is constantly evolving. Originally from Haiti, she moved to New York at young age. She worked hard to earn her Bachelor’s in Business and Sociology from the City College of NY. Sherly enjoys spending time with loved ones, working out, and learning to cook a variety of dishes.

Sherly Poluscar

Project Administrator, Municipal Compliance and Expediting
Learn more about Sherly

Sherly brings 15+ years of experience within the Department of Buildings unit to the firm. Prior to Marin, she worked for several architectural firms where she honed her skills as a Project Manager of Municipal Compliance. Sherly oversees filing for all city agencies, approving documents, and dismissing violations. Her persevering work ethic allows the firm to stay on top of projects as the DOB is constantly evolving. Originally from Haiti, she moved to New York at young age. She worked hard to earn her Bachelor’s in Business and Sociology from the City College of NY. Sherly enjoys spending time with loved ones, working out, and learning to cook a variety of dishes.

Sherly brings 15+ years of experience within the Department of Buildings unit to the firm. Prior to Marin, she worked for several architectural firms where she honed her skills as a Project Manager of Municipal Compliance. Sherly oversees filing for all city agencies, approving documents, and dismissing violations. Her persevering work ethic allows the firm to stay on top of projects as the DOB is constantly evolving. Originally from Haiti, she moved to New York at young age. She worked hard to earn her Bachelor’s in Business and Sociology from the City College of NY. Sherly enjoys spending time with loved ones, working out, and learning to cook a variety of dishes.

We believe that people are at the heart of great design.

Philosophy

Bringing together international perspectives, experiences and reach, our team leverages unique viewpoints and strategic connections to valuable effect. Together we contribute to creating an inclusive, communicative workplace environment where each individual is encouraged to grow and excel. With horizontal leadership and a commitment to equal opportunity, our people-centric approach begins with our internal culture.