AMINA BOUAYAD, AIA

Amina's passion for architecture started in Fès, Morocco, where she was born. Fés is a city widely acknowledged as an open-air museum with narrow maze-like streets and a rich cultural history. Amina pursued her studies in architecture in Paris, France, and then in Naples, Italy, where she later participated in a student exchange program driven by her love for traveling and discovering new cultures.

After obtaining her architecture degree, she continued her studies in urban design in New York and decided to settle in the Big Apple to materialize her vast design ambitions. She became a registered architect in the State of New York in 2019.

Her primary focus is on residential buildings in New York City, encompassing all project phases, from schematic design to construction of new high-rise towers and renovation of existing buildings with a sustainable approach.

Amina's multicultural upbringing allows her to infuse the built environment with exotic design ideas. Her globe-trotting lifestyle has allowed her to analyze projects and value designs from varying perspectives. Amina brings a robust urban design & architecture background and has a wealth of experience in interior design and planning.

ANA ZAPATA, aia

Ana Zapata is a licensed architect with over 14 years of experience in designing and delivering high-end residential, mixed-use, and affordable housing projects. Her practice is rooted in architecture, with a focus on thoughtful design, clear communication, and the ability to navigate complex projects from concept through construction.

She collaborates with developers, and creative teams to bring clarity to early-stage decisions and design execution. While architecture is the foundation, her work often extends into adjacent territory—offering insight on site strategy, zoning, and feasibility, as well as support with technical workflows and project coordination.

Ana’s interest in emerging technologies informs the studio’s approach to problem-solving. Tools like Grasshopper, Dynamo, and Python are integrated where they add value, enhancing efficiency and design depth without compromising the human quality of the work.

With her wealth of experience, technical expertise, and passion for design innovation, Ana Zapata is dedicated to shaping the future of architecture and creating spaces that inspire, enrich, and endure.

MELISSA ANDERSON, RA

Melissa grew up on a homestead in rural Kansas, where her natural curiosity and an eye for sculptural forms and the interplay of light were nurtured. This environment played a pivotal role in shaping her unique approach to architecture, which blended an appreciation for natural aesthetics with a methodical, scientific strategy.

Her academic journey in architecture extended from the plains of Kansas to the historic and culturally vibrant city of Paris, France. Melissa obtained her master’s degree in architecture from the University of Kansas through a joint program with the Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Paris-Vale de Seine. This international educational experience expanded her architectural perspectives and enhanced her understanding of diverse architectural styles and techniques, effectively bridging her theoretical knowledge with practical applications.

In her professional career, Melissa has successfully led the design and construction administration of over 1000 affordable and market-rate high-end units and several single-family homes. Her extensive portfolio highlights her strong capabilities in managing large-scale projects across various housing markets. Her projects showcase a refined design sensibility, rigorous management of project timelines, and a commitment to timely project delivery.

Through her experiences, Melissa has developed a deep understanding of the nuances of architectural design and project management. Her ability to blend technical precision with creative design solutions makes her a distinct figure in the field of architecture, capable of transforming theoretical concepts into tangible realities that resonate with both clients and communities.