Marjorie Skouras debuts caftans to support rural music school
Designer Marjorie Skouras launched her latest collection of caftans Thursday night at Casa T’ho in Mérida, marking the debut of her new pop-up store. The store was created not just as a showcase of her signature designs but also to support a cause close to her heart: the Kookix Music School. Located in the rural village of Dzemul, the nonprofit school was founded by Skouras to provide music education and resources to children who otherwise would not have access to them. Proceeds from the popup store will go toward scholarships, purchasing instruments, and expanding the school’s reach in the community.
Marjorie Skouras is no stranger to the world of design. She has built a career on her ability to blend bold colors, intricate patterns, and culturally inspired motifs. Best known for her work in interior design and lighting, Skouras’ pieces have been featured in high-profile homes, luxury hotels, and galleries around the world. Her designs often reflect a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and storytelling, traits she attributes to her upbringing in California.
Born and raised in San Francisco, Skouras grew up surrounded by creativity. Her mother was a talented painter, and her father, a passionate art collector, exposed her to a wide range of artistic styles from an early age. Skouras credits her family’s eclectic taste and encouragement for fostering her artistic eye. “I was lucky to grow up in an environment where art and design were part of everyday life,” she says in an interview reflecting on her upbringing in California. “It gave me a foundation to explore my own creativity without fear.”
Skouras began her career as a set designer in Los Angeles, where she worked on commercials and film projects. This early experience taught her the importance of creating spaces that tell a story—a skill she later carried into her interior design business. Her move to the Yucatán Peninsula, however, marked a significant turning point in her career and personal life. Drawn to the region’s rich history and vibrant culture, Skouras settled in the area and began integrating local craftsmanship and traditions into her work.
Her latest collection of caftans reflects this connection to her adopted home. The pieces draw inspiration from the vivid landscapes and cultural motifs of the Yucatán. Each caftan features intricate patterns and bold colors that Skouras describes as a tribute to the region’s natural beauty and artistic heritage. “Living here has profoundly influenced my work,” she says, reflecting on her experiences during a previous interview about her life in the Yucatán. “There’s a deep sense of connection to the land and community that comes through in everything I create.”
The event at Casa T’ho offered guests a chance to see this influence firsthand. The pop-up store’s display included the full collection of caftans, presented against a backdrop of handcrafted decor and textiles. Adding to the evening’s atmosphere, students from the Kookix Music School performed a selection of classical and regional folk music. For many attendees, the performance highlighted the importance of the school and its mission.
The Kookix Music School began as a small project on Skouras’ Quinta property in Dzemul. She first conceived the idea after noticing how many children in the area had natural musical talent but lacked access to instruments or formal instruction. Determined to make a difference, Skouras worked with local educators and musicians to create a program that could provide lessons, practice space, and performance opportunities. Today, the school serves dozens of students and has become a beloved resource for the community.
“The goal of the Kookix Music School is to give these kids a platform to explore their potential,” Skouras says. “Music is a powerful tool for self-expression and growth, and I want to make sure they have the opportunity to experience that.” The school’s name, “Kookix,” is derived from the Mayan word for “song,” reflecting both its mission and its connection to the local culture.
The proceeds from the pop-up store will help the school expand its programming, including the addition of new classes and outreach efforts. Skouras is also exploring partnerships with other organizations to bring more resources to the students. “This is just the beginning,” she says. “There’s so much more we can do to support these kids and their futures.”
By combining her creative work with her philanthropic efforts, Skouras has found a way to make a meaningful impact in her community. The Casa T’ho event was a clear demonstration of this, blending art, music, and purpose into a memorable evening. As guests left, many were inspired not just by the beauty of the caftans but also by the story behind them. Skouras’s commitment to the Kookix Music School is a testament to the idea that creativity can be a force for change—both in the world of design and beyond.
The pop-up shop is open through Dec. 15, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Lee Steele is the founding director of Mérida-based Roof Cat Media S de RL de CV and has published Yucatán Magazine and other titles since 2012. He was Hearst Connecticut’s Sunday Magazine creative director and worked in New York City for various magazine publishers, including Condé Nast and Primedia, for over 20 years.
