Meet Marley…
who is the creative, right-brain vision to the partnership. After graduating magna cum laude from Arizona State University, Marley returned to the university as adjunct faculty, teaching design for 12 years while establishing his architectural practice. Since 1979, his work has been guided by the belief that architecture should do more than provide shelter—it should inspire, nurture, and create a meaningful connection between people and the places they inhabit.
Throughout his career, Marley has continually explored the principles of “A Living Architecture,” an evolving philosophy that is now reflected in the firm’s name. His approach brings together artistic expression, energy efficiency, environmental awareness, and holistic, spiritually grounded design. Each project is shaped by its land, climate, natural materials, and ecosystem—as well as by the individual needs, aspirations, and values of the client.
Marley’s service as Tribal Architect to the Navajo Nation profoundly influenced this philosophy. Through that experience, he encountered an egoless approach to design—one in which architecture is not created as a monument to the architect, but emerges from something greater. The resulting work belongs to the land, responds to the environment, honors the resources available, and reflects the heart of those who will live or work within it.
This thoughtful and intuitive perspective allows Marley to create architecture that feels deeply personal, naturally integrated, and genuinely alive.
Meet Shane…
who is the builder’s perspective—and the left-brain balance—to the partnership. With more than two decades in the construction industry, his experience has him managing large, complex projects in some of the country’s most demanding markets, including Lake Tahoe, Park City, Jackson Hole, and the North East. Shane has owned companies specializing in well drilling, excavation, framing, roofing, general contracting, luxury home building, and real estate development. This unusually broad, hands-on background gives him a deep understanding of every phase of construction, from the ground beneath a home to the systems, craftsmanship, and coordination required to complete it.
Known for clear communication and a steady, solution-oriented approach, Shane excels at bringing people, processes, and details together—often finding answers beyond the obvious or conventional. So much so, that he was heavily courted to leave the private sector for a few years to consult Fortune 100 companies on process management and operational procedures pertaining to Health, Safety, and Enviromental matters.
Where Marley Porter brings architectural vision and creative intuition, Shane provides the structure, strategy, and practical insight that turn ambitious ideas into exceptional built environments.