The collection consists of student work and records created or received by Joseph Marcella while studying in the Design Correlations Department (now Product Design) of Parsons School of Design from 1968 to 1970. In addition to project files for portable structures, underwater and outer space habitations, and a one-piece plastic chair, the collection includes materials documenting the first Earth Day observances at Parsons.

Lyman Martin (1908-2003) graduated from Parsons School of Design in 1939 and joined Thedlow, an interior decoration firm. At Thedlow, Martin created interiors and watercolor renderings, and designed rugs and murals. In 1969, Martin became president of Thedlow, remaining until its closure in 1979. The collection includes student work, interior drawings, a travel diary, floorplans, photographs, clippings, and exhibition files.