Henry Marti Funes

Henry was born in Los Angeles and spent his formative years in El Salvador until the age of 14. Growing up, he actively participated in his father's construction business, sparking his interest in design and architecture from a young age. Witnessing the intricate process of construction fueled Henry's curiosity and passion for creating spaces that harmonize functionality and aesthetics. Upon returning to the United States, Henry pursued his dream by enrolling at Cal Poly Pomona. In 2015, he successfully earned his bachelor's degree in Architecture, equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to embark on a promising career in the field. Henry's professional journey commenced with stints at various architectural offices, where he honed his craft and gained valuable experience in the industry. However, his entrepreneurial spirit and desire for creative autonomy led him to a pivotal moment in 2019 when he co-founded FO Studio with his spouse, Maria. Today, Henry is a dedicated designer and entrepreneur, passionate about transforming clients' visions into reality. His commitment to delivering innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs, coupled with his hands-on approach to construction, sets him apart in the competitive world of architecture. As he continues to lead FO Studio, Henry remains at the forefront of shaping spaces that not only meet practical needs but also inspire and captivate those who experience them.

Maria Ornelas Funes

Maria was born in the vibrant city of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. Her journey to becoming a successful architect began with a childhood dream of pursuing a professional career, particularly in the field of architecture. In 2005, Maria made the life-changing decision to immigrate to Los Angeles. Undeterred by the obstacles she encountered, Maria's perseverance led her to achieve a significant milestone – acceptance into Cal Poly Pomona. It was during her time at the university that she crossed paths with her future husband, Henry. In 2015, Maria graduated with a bachelor's degree in Architecture, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Post-graduation, she navigated the complexities of the professional world, securing a designer position at a small firm in West Los Angeles. In this role, Maria delved into the intricacies of Building Codes and developed a specialization in the design of apartment buildings. Her tenure at the firm exposed her to a diverse range of projects, with a focus on multifamily developments. Over the years, she contributed to the design and management of more than 50 multifamily projects in Los Angeles. Her involvement extended beyond schematic design, encompassing permitting and project management. In 2019, Maria and her husband, Henry, took a leap of faith and founded FO Studio as a part-time venture. Little did they know that their studio would experience remarkable growth, leading Maria to dedicate herself full-time to the flourishing enterprise. Her role within FO Studio involves not only contributing to design projects but also assisting clients in navigating the complex landscape of building permits throughout Southern California.