Maisie Hughes

Maisie Hughes

Co-founder, Creative Director

Maisie Hughes is a landscape architect and urban forestry leader with nearly two decades of experience advancing climate adaptation, canopy equity, and community-driven environmental design. As Co-Founder and Creative Director of The Urban Studio, she leads the Community Design Lab, translating forestry and climate strategies into accessible programs that address urban heat, stormwater, and long-term stewardship.

She previously served as Vice President of Urban Forestry at American Forests, managing more than $65 million in climate resilience funding nationwide and leading major planning initiatives, including the Arlington County Forestry and Natural Resources Plan and a federal climate adaptation strategy with the USDA Forest Service. Throughout her career, Maisie has developed practical tools, guided multidisciplinary teams, and provided strategic leadership to integrate urban forestry into design, policy, and community practice.