Our Story

POM Studio Architects is an LGBTQ, Black woman-owned architecture firm rooted in Prince George’s County, Maryland. We specialize in a diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, and cultural projects. Our name, POM—an acronym for Peace of Mind—represents our core philosophy: to bring calm, clarity, and appreciation to a process that is often complex and high-pressure.

At POM Studio, we listen deeply, design intentionally, and care genuinely.

We create architecture that is not only functional and beautiful but also deeply responsive—to people, to place, and to purpose. Every project is an opportunity to center human experience and design in harmony with nature, culture, and community.

We are committed to:

  • Providing solutions that exist in harmony with the environment and the lives they serve.

  • Staying engaged with the communities we design for and the contexts we shape.

  • Continuously learning—always and in all ways—so that our work evolves with empathy, innovation, and integrity.

The Team

Portia Strahan

AIA, NOMA NCARB LEED AP

Portia Strahan is the founding principal of POM Studio Architects and a licensed Architect in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. She established POM, which stands for ‘Peace of Mind,’ to promote the visibility of responsible minority architects committed to socially and ecologically restorative design. Portia holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University (2007) and a Master’s in Architecture from the University of Utah (2016). With over 15 years of experience, she has contributed to diverse projects, focusing on community and cultural-based designs, especially in communities of color.

Throughout her career, Portia has been involved in various educational and community-focused initiatives. She participated in the Design Build Bluff Program at the University of Utah, which deepened her skills in construction and project management. Portia has also volunteered for organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Architecture for Humanity, and PETS, and served on their boards. She has taught Architectural Design Studio at the University of Maryland, College Park, and spoken at numerous career fairs to inspire young minority architects.

Outside of her professional work, Portia finds inspiration in hands-on craftsmanship and nature. She enjoys building, planting, hiking, and spending time with family and dogs outdoors, which keeps her grounded and sensitive to the people and places she designs for.

Caroline Meyer

Project Designer/ Project Manager

Caroline brings over 10 years of design and technical experience with multi and single family residential, commercial interiors, and boutique hospitality.  Her exposure to complex and uniquely-resourced projects, whether deeply affordable or custom high-end, new build or historical renovation, has cultivated an adaptive and solution-oriented design ethos that she is eager to continue deepening at POM Studio.

Dominica Beverley

Architectural Designer

Dominica Beverley is an innovative architectural designer who joined POM Studio Architects in 2022. With a strong background in carpentry and a passion for design, she earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. At POM Studio, Dominica contributes her architectural expertise while also leading the firm's social media and marketing efforts, helping to showcase the studio's work to a broader audience.

A native of Prince George’s County, Dominica is a foodie at heart. On weekends, she enjoys exploring new restaurants with her partner and two daughters, always seeking the next great culinary experience.

Sunny

Office Manager

Sunny is our 4 year old Lab who is loves to come say hello to everyone in the office. She likes to find a chair to curl up in or sit and watch the birds outside.

Ari

Office Manager

Ari is a German Shepard mix and comes with 8 years of experience in making everyone feel special. She mostly stays on alert while reminding us to take some time out to have some fun. She likes to take naps under your desk and

Let’s Connect!

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact us today to discuss how we can create inspiring spaces together.