Bio:
The great designer ,Maria has 20 years of experience managing the full scope of architectural services to produce the highest quality work for her clients. She served as the Architect member of the DC Historic Preservation Review Board and chair of the Sustainability Committee. She is on the Board of Trustees of the DC Historical Society Advisory Committee and is a volunteer mentor for the Washington Architectural Foundation’s “Design Like a Girl” program.

How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I was always passionate about drawing and crafting things. In high school i had an internship with a local architect and it all came together for me that this was a way to explore my passion for design.

What do you do?
I am a designer, a teacher, a manager, a problem solver, and mentor. I direct a variety of projects that range from single family houses to affordable housing.

What excites you in the work you do?
The experience of watching an idea come to life in built form. The process is such a privilege.

Who or what inspires you professionally?
It varies from day to day, but I’m inspired by the unique stories of a place or a person and how that can be reflected in a project. Certainly the people I work with are a constant source of energy and inspiration.

What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
Serving on the HPRB for DC is a very public political position that has influence over the development across the city. I learned so much about the city and the passion people have for their neighborhoods.

Featured Project Name: 
The Divine House
 
Featured Project Location: 
McLean, VA
 
Featured Project Completion Date: 
2018

Role in Featured Project: 
Senior Project Architect
 
Featured Project Description:
This contemporary home uses an open living concept with a strong indoor/outdoor connection. They came to us with this very clear vision of a tall central Living/Dining/Den space that we were able to build upon. It was important to bring a lot of light into the house while balancing with the need for privacy. Touchable natural materials can be found inside and out. There is a generous wrap around front entry porch or out to the deck and pool in the rear yard for entertaining.

Photography Credit:
Anice Hoachlander