Matthew Salenger, AIA, AA dipl. hons.
coLAB studio co-founder, managing partner;
Matthew is an artist and architect with deep roots in Maui, where he was raised. He earned Honors degrees from Arizona State University (1996) and later graduated with Diploma Honors from The Architectural Association of London (1999). His work focuses on pushing the boundaries of community interaction, design, and environmentalism, seeking innovative ways to create spaces that inspire and engage. A lifelong surfer, musician, and non-fiction author, Matthew brings a creative and holistic perspective to his craft.
Having spent 9 years in college studying both studio art and architecture, Matthew continues to work as both an artist and architect. As of 2025, (alongside Maria) he has played a key role in the design and management of nearly every coLAB studio project, contributing to the completion of 25 constructed buildings and 25 public artworks across Arizona, California, Hawai’i, Florida, and Oregon. In addition to his architectural and artistic endeavors, he offers consultation services to other designers on Biophilic Design, the Integrative Design Process, and Public Art Planning.
Beyond his professional work, Matthew has co-founded and led numerous community organizations, including The Living Building Challenge Sonoran Collaborative, Urban Choices, Citizens for a Vibrant Apache Corridor, and the Sonoran Collaborative Regenerative Development Cohort. Since 2019, he has been deepening his expertise as a Regenerative Practitioner, continually expanding his approach to sustainable and community-driven development.
“I grew up on the vibrant slopes of Maui’s north shore in the 1970s and 80s, surrounded by landscapes and buildings that were, at the time, beautiful, historic, and unique. Over the years, some of that character has faded. Similarly, in my 25+ years living in Phoenix, I’ve witnessed how unchecked sprawl has contributed to economic, aesthetic, social, and health challenges.
The positive experiences of my youth instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility. Through thoughtful design, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability, I strive to help shape spaces that foster connection, culture, and a stronger relationship with the environment.”
“Growing up in Phoenix, I experienced the rapid transformation of the Southwest and saw how economic pressures often shaped development at the expense of cultural and environmental connections.
My passion lies in creating urban spaces that foster a balance between efficiency, identity, and nature. Through design, education, and advocacy, I work to ensure that communities retain their character while evolving sustainably.
By empowering diverse voices of people in the built environment, I strive to create spaces that inspire, connect, and endure.”
Maria Salenger, AIA
coLAB studio co-founder, majority owner;
Maria, a native Phoenician, has witnessed the rapid development of the Southwest over the past 50 years. Recognizing the profound influence of economics and efficiency on this growth, she is dedicated to weaving culture and natural connections back into urban spaces.
She holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Arizona (1994) and a Master of Fine Arts from University College London’s Slade School of Fine Art (1999). In addition to her professional work, Maria teaches design studios at Arizona State University and the University of Arizona, with faculty exchange experience at Universidad LaSalle in Mexico City.
Her contributions have earned her recognition as one of Arizona Business Magazine's Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate. As an active member of AIA Arizona’s Women’s Leadership Group, she is committed to amplifying diverse voices in the design field, fostering inclusion, and shaping a more equitable industry