LS3P Columbia leadership evolution
January 13, 2025
Architecture, interiors, and planning firm LS3P, announced that Columbia Office Leader and Principal, Mary Beth Sims Branham, AIA, has now assumed the K-12 Practice Leader role for the firm. The K-12 sector is the largest at the firm and project work is completed across all 12 of the firm’s office locations.
A Columbia native, Mary Beth opened the Columbia office in May 2004, the firm’s first female start-up office. With more than 40 years of experience, she has led the design team on notable projects in Columbia, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division’s Forensics Lab, the University of South Carolina Pastides Alumni Center, and the Fireflies/Segra Stadium in the Bull Street Development (in association with Populous).
Allen Taylor and Mary Beth Sims Branham
Mary Beth is excited to return to her roots in the K-12 market. With her recent election to the Board of Directors, this transition is an exciting new chapter in her career. “I cherished the opportunity to start LS3P’s Columbia office 20 years ago and am so proud to have played a part in seeing it grow into one of the most successful and impactful offices in the Midlands area. This new opportunity to transition to the K12 Practice Leader is a true “full circle” moment. I began my career with a focus and passion for the K12 market and I am so excited to now lead and support our dynamic K12 practice and people firm-wide! Most importantly, I’m so excited for Allen Taylor to take the helm now as the office and firm continue to evolve in the coming years” shares Mary Beth.
Mary Beth will be “passing the baton” to Principal Allen Taylor, AIA, LEED AP BD+ C, as the new Columbia Office Leader. Allen served as both Studio Leader and Operations and Finance Manager for the office. He has shown exceptional leadership and dedication over his 35-year tenure with LS3P, significantly contributing to the growth of our Columbia Office in all market sectors. According to Allen, “It has been a rewarding 19 years developing and growing the Columbia office with Mary Beth. I am excited and honored to continue serving our clients alongside our talented team. Together, we will focus on delivering exceptional results and strengthen our commitment to excellence.”
About LS3P
Founded in 1963, LS3P is an architecture, interiors, and planning firm with regional roots and national reach. Operating from its twelve offices in Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, Asheville, Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh, Wilmington, Atlanta, Savannah, and Jacksonville, LS3P is deeply committed to the communities in which it serves and has been honored with over 680 design awards in diverse practice areas. For more information on LS3P, visit ls3p.com.
