Since being hand-selected to lead MKDA’s Stamford studio in 2006, Northeast Regional Managing Principal Julia Riso Livingston, RA has become a dominant force in design and commercial real estate. Under her leadership, the design studio, located in Shippan Landing, has become a leading provider of services to the commercial building, workplace, healthcare, retail and residential sectors across Fairfield and Westchester counties, and nationally.
Her reputation has been built upon robust advisory services and crafting functional and visually impactful interior spaces that are perfectly adapted for the client. She is often called upon by commercial building owners to advise on building repositionings and the best approach for branding, marketing and leasing space.
“Good design is always a team effort. Purposeful collaboration in our open studio environment produces the best solutions for clients,” said Julia. “Always listen and offer professional advice, but at the end of the day, our partnership is our greatest strength.”
Julia has designed a wide range of interiors for renowned brands such as Guggenheim Partners, Cosentini Associates, Eldridge Industries and Eagle Point Credit Management, and has performed major capital improvements on behalf of landlords George Comfort & Sons and Rubenstein Partners. Her work also includes interior design and architecture on restaurants, healthcare facilities, multifamily properties, and single family residences.
In addition, Julia has been an integral part of MKDA’s emergence as a thought leader on the COVID-19 crisis and its short- and long-term impact on the built environment. Her expertise and insights were prominently featured in multiple reports, webinars, and media, including the leading real estate publication Commercial Observer.
Furthermore, Julia has helped many companies navigate their post-COVID office return, providing unparalleled advisory on social distancing space allocation and phased returns. She has also assisted several New York companies relocating or opening satellite offices in the northern suburbs in response to the pandemic.
Julia’s professional contributions to businesses and her community have earned her many recognitions. These include Woman Making an Impact by Westchester County Business Journal; Women of Influence by GlobeSt.com Street; and a Leading Lady in Commercial Real Estate by Real Estate Weekly.
“In offering exceptional design and first-rate service, Julia has formed lasting business relationships and made significant contributions to Stamford’s real estate and business communities,” noted MKDA CEO Michael Kleinberg. “I have no doubt that she will continue to make an impact for years to come.”
