Bio:

Nivine Perez, lead interior architect for CannonDesign’s Southern California region, is an incredibly creative, thoughtful and passionate leader. She is deeply respected for her ability to mentor others, listen to clients and create spaces that deliver deep, positive impact for the community. She currently serves on CannonDesign’s NEXT Council, a firmwide leadership development program and was named a Woman of Influence in Architecture and Design by the San Diego Business Journal in 2022.

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How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?

My career journey has been non-linear. I studied fine arts before journeying my way into architecture. Many unique opportunities have come my way given my diverse background, which made me view architecture in a more holistic and meaningful way.

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What do you do?

As an Interior Architect, I enjoy listening and observing. I zoom out and look at the big picture rather than individual tasks. Each project has a unique narrative, it’s about uncovering opportunities within, to create compelling experiences.

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What excites you in the work you do? 

I moved to Cairo, Egypt after completing my architecture education. It was very exciting to experience a new way of life. I view my career in a similar way. I want to remain stimulated and inspired every day to output the best ideas and solutions.

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Who or what inspires you professionally? 

I once approached a sidewalk where a tree broke through. This moment set precedent for all my work. I spend time understanding how a project can be integrated in the community. Everything has to work together without one thing dominating another.

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What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?

I was up for a promotion and did not get it because I had not started my architectural exams. I didn’t waste time, started studying and taking my exams. I am still pursuing my license, but overcoming my fear is one of my greatest accomplishments.

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Featured Project Name: 

Los Angeles Unified School District, Lincoln High School, Comprehensive Modernization

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Featured Project Location: 

Lincoln Heights Community of East Los Angeles, California

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Featured Project Completion Date: 

August 2027​

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Role in Featured Project: 

Lead Designer

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Featured Project Description:

How can architecture be approached in an inclusive way? Lincoln High School has a long-standing history in Los Angeles. The school is most notable for the Chicano Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and to this day, it is the largest student-led protest in public school history. Understanding the rich history and sense of place was essential to the design. Every moment is purposeful and tells a story by revealing the history of the campus while weaving the energy and excitement of the future.

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Photography Credit:

CannonDesign