Morgan Mulholland // MVRDV
Tell us about your PRP firm. Where are you working?
I’m working at MVRDV, a Dutch-based firm recognized for its experimental, socially driven, and playful designs. I’m based in the main office in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, where the firm is divided into seven studios organized by project location. I work with the Americas Studio, focusing on the design and acquisition of projects across North and South America.
Do you enjoy the city you’re working in? Favorite aspects?
Rotterdam is an incredible city, especially for those interested in art and architecture. Many of my favorite projects and museums are right here. Plus, it’s a quick train ride to cities like Amsterdam, Paris, London, Hamburg, and Brussels, so I’ve been making the most of it.
What is currently on your desk?
At the moment, my desk has a scarf (my first time living somewhere where scarves and gloves are everyday essentials), a roll of trace paper, my MVRDV sketchbook, and a box of macarons I brought back from Paris to share with my team.
What are you working on?
Currently, I’m participating in an in-house facade competition. Each studio is designing facades for a set of campus buildings, and the client will select the winning designs. The friendly competition makes for a lively atmosphere in the office. Most of my projects have been in South Florida, which is especially exciting since that’s where I’m from, so it feels meaningful to work on major projects in my home state.
Describe the firm culture and the office atmosphere.
MVRDV’s culture is vibrant and welcoming! With around 200 people, there’s always an event or celebration happening—never a dull moment. Lunch is served daily, and everyone gathers around long picnic tables. My favorite tradition is our 3 p.m. “cookie time,” when everyone takes a break for a snack. Although the office is large, it feels close-knit, with lots of community-building activities, celebrations, and the occasional holiday party or ping-pong tournament. I’ll definitely miss the friends I’ve made here.
What is the first thing you’ll tell your classmates upon your return to UT?
The first thing I’ll tell them is that Austin needs better bike lanes. Being able to safely bike everywhere is a luxury I’ll really miss.
As you're finishing up the week, what are your plans for this weekend?
With winter fully here in The Netherlands, the days of beach and lake weekends are over, but cities here are getting into the holiday spirit with lights and decorations. This weekend, I’m planning a short day trip to Cologne, Germany, to enjoy the holiday festivities and markets there.