G!LL!S is a design research studio exploring the intersections of art, architecture, and landscape. With a focus on emerging technologies and evolving material systems, the studio investigates how design shapes and responds to contemporary culture and the built environment.
Driven by a commitment to material experimentation and multisensory engagement, G!LL!S approaches each project—speculative or real—with the goal of reimagining how environments are experienced and constructed. The work privileges process, embraces innovation, and seeks to provoke new forms of spatial and aesthetic expression.
Matthew Gillis, Principal
Matthew is a designer, architect and educator. He earned his Bachelor of Design in Architecture at University of Florida and a Master of Architecture from UCLA. He brings two decades of experience to the built environment.. Prior to forming G!LL!S, Matthew worked in the offices of Coop Himmel(b)lau (Guadalajara) and Griffin Enright Architects (Los Angeles) on multiple award winning design projects and buildings. In addition to leading the design practice, Matthew is committed to research and publication. He was a Los Angeles Forum for Architecture and Urban Design board member and editorial contributor from 2012-1017. Matthew has taught at SCI-Arc, OTIS College of Design and most recently a Visiting Professor at Woodbury University School of Architecture(WSOA). He has taught abroad with WSOA and international institutions from France, Japan and Italy educational collaborations.
Team
Recent team members have included Parsa Rezaee, Sohrab Pak, Nick Rados, Eric Eaken, Shayer Rahman, Lori Choi, Max Miller, Maria Kobalyan, Chen Chen, Ari Danaci, Erfan Zamani
Collaborators
Thurman Grant - Architect
Claret-Cup - Bojána Bányász and Donatella Cusmá
Radical Craft - Joshua Stein
X Over Zero - Duane McLemore