Entry gates at the Marin Civic Center
The Marin Civic Center has been a quiet but lasting influence on my work.
My now-husband grew up nearby, and on one of our first trips to the Bay Area to visit his family, we drove past it. I immediately needed to know more about this building. With its striking curvilinear gold gates and sweeping arches, it felt both bold and graceful. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1957, it serves as a municipal building where the most exciting things happening inside are jury duty or requesting a copy of your birth certificate. I’ve always loved that contrast. Something so visually extraordinary, holding very ordinary moments.
Interior of the Marin Civic Center
At first, I was captivated by the gates and the soft repetition of arches on the facade. When I finally stepped inside, I realized those same curved forms carried throughout the entire space, from the hallways and ceilings, to the smallest details like the benches and water fountains. It’s what makes the building feel whole.
I've always been drawn to design that feels balanced and purposeful, and something about the Civic Center’s steady repetition of curves and lines stayed with me. It’s not just that the building is beautiful. It’s that the beauty comes from commitment to one form, repeated until the whole place feels cohesive.
Curves and arches, echoed in the details. (Left) Wooden Bench and decorative moulding (Right) Drinking Fountain
Over time, it became more than inspiration. My husband and I actually got our marriage certificate there, adding another layer of meaning to a place that already felt significant. I love how certain places quietly become part of our stories. This one very much did.
That combination of architectural influence and lived connection has shaped several of my pieces. The Marin Pendant is the most direct reference. It was inspired by the Civic Center’s repeating arcs, translated into wearable form.
Marin Pendant in 14K yellow gold with pave diamonds
The same influence shows up in the Klein and Stella rings, taking cues from the repeating arches of the civic center's grand entry gates.
Stella and Klein rings
Some places stay with you. This one did, and it continues to show up in my work in quiet, persistent ways.
Thank you for reading, and for being here.