Today we’d like to introduce you to Adriana Tamayo
Hi Adriana, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I founded Design Subtropic to bridge the gaps I noticed in Miami’s design community after over a decade of experience, including serving as President of AIGA Miami. This platform empowers designers by fostering skill development, collaboration, and business growth, while elevating South Florida as a hub for impactful design. Design Subtropic operates on a win-win-win model, benefiting designers, the community, and local businesses alike. Beyond this venture, I also own Muddy + Mind, a kids’ adventure brand that brings the spirit of exploration to life.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey to building Design Subtropic has been anything but smooth, but every challenge has contributed to its growth and purpose. Early on, one of the biggest struggles was identifying and addressing the gaps in Miami’s design community. Traditional volunteer models for fostering collaboration and skill development often fell short, which highlighted the need for a sustainable, impactful platform. Additionally, as with any grassroots initiative, there were hurdles in gaining trust, building an engaged community, and securing resources/fund to bring the vision to life. Navigating these challenges require perseverance, creative problem-solving, and a relentless commitment to the mission of empowering local designers and elevating the industry.
We’ve been impressed with Design Subtropic, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Design Subtropic is a platform dedicated to empowering Miami’s design community and transforming South Florida into a hub for impactful, world-class design. We specialize in creating opportunities for designers to enhance their skills, grow their networks, and scale their businesses, while fostering a collaborative, inclusive environment that connects local talent with businesses and global audiences.
We are best known for hosting a variety of community-driven initiatives, including workshops, talks, festivals, and a dedicated job board that bridges the gap between talented designers and companies in need of creative solutions. Our events have attracted leading names in design, including Google, The Futur, and Pentagram, positioning Design Subtropic as a trusted voice and leader in the creative industry.
What sets us apart is our “win-win-win” philosophy, ensuring that our work simultaneously uplifts individual designers, strengthens the broader design community, and supports local businesses. We take pride in creating a space where designers feel inspired, valued, and empowered to achieve their full potential.
Brand-wise, we are most proud of our ability to bring people together—whether it’s through meaningful collaborations, skill-building events, or community initiatives like Monday Cafecito, where we brighten the start of a designer’s week with a cup of coffee from a local sponsor.
We want readers to know that Design Subtropic is more than just a design organization—it’s a movement to elevate the industry, support creative growth, and showcase the transformative power of design in building vibrant, connected communities. From tailored workshops to large-scale festivals, we offer a variety of opportunities for designers and businesses to thrive. Together, we’re shaping the future of design in Miami and beyond.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something surprising that most people might not know is that alongside leading Design Subtropic, I also own a kids’ adventure brand called Play Outside. It’s a passion project that brings my love for education and the outdoors into the world of children, encouraging curiosity and adventure in young minds. While many know me for my dedication to empowering designers and fostering community in Miami, this playful, imaginative brand represents a different facet of my creative journey—one rooted in storytelling and nurturing a sense of wonder.
Pricing:
- Brand Strategy – $5500
- Visual Identity – $7500
- Both – $10500
- Events MGMT – Custom pricing
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.designsubtropic.com/
- Instagram: @designsubtropic
- Other: https://playoutside.co/
