Today we’d like to introduce you to Sabrina.
Hi Sabrina, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Since I was very young, I felt a deep connection with spaces and how they influence people’s emotions and lives. That passion led me to study architecture, and after graduating in 2021 with a specialization in civil construction.
Being in such a vibrant and challenging city pushed me to grow professionally and personally. Along the way, I realized I wanted to create something that reflected my own vision and values—so I founded ValPa Design, my own design studio.
At the same time, I wrote my first book, ‘Arquitectura con Propósito’, where I share my belief that architecture should be more than aesthetics; it should serve communities, improve quality of life, and leave a positive legacy.
Today, I continue designing with purpose, combining technical expertise with a human-centered approach, and inspiring others—especially young architects and women in the field—to do the same.”
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?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, and honestly, I think that’s what has shaped me the most. Moving into the architecture and construction field in Miami as a young Latina came with challenges. One of my first struggles was the language. English wasn’t my first language, so at the beginning I had to work twice as hard to communicate confidently in a professional environment and to show that I could lead projects effectively.
Also, as a woman in a male-dominated industry, it wasn’t always easy to earn trust and get access to great opportunities. But I learned to see those challenges as motivation. They pushed me to develop resilience, to keep improving, and to believe in my own vision.
Today, I see those obstacles as part of the reason I’ve been able to create my own path with ValPa Design and write my book ‘Arquitectura con Propósito.’ They taught me that our differences—being young, Latina, or coming from another culture—can actually be our biggest strengths
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m an architect and the founder of ValPa Design, a studio focused on architectural design and creating spaces that are functional, beautiful, and meaningful. I specialize in civil construction but what truly sets my work apart is my philosophy: I approach every project with a sense of purpose.
Through my book, ‘Arquitectura con Propósito,’ and my professional work, I advocate for design that improves people’s lives, supports communities, and respects the environment.
What I’m most proud of is being able to bring this vision to life—not just on paper but in real projects—while also inspiring other young architects, especially women and Latinas, to believe they can lead and innovate in this field.
I think what sets me apart is my combination of technical expertise, human-centered design, and my ability to connect cultural sensitivity with modern architecture. Every project is not just a structure—it’s an opportunity to leave a positive legacy.”
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I think the architecture and construction industry will see huge shifts in the next 5 to 10 years. One of the biggest trends is a stronger focus on sustainability and resilience. We’re already seeing a growing demand for buildings that are energy-efficient, environmentally conscious, and adaptable to climate challenges—especially in cities like Miami.
Another big change is the integration of technology, like AI and smart systems, into design and construction processes. This will allow us to create spaces that are more intuitive and responsive to human needs.
But beyond technology, I believe the industry will move toward a more human-centered approach—designing not just for aesthetics or function, but for the wellbeing of people and communities. That’s why I’m so passionate about Arquitectura con Propósito: because the future of architecture isn’t just about buildings, it’s about creating meaningful, healthy, and inclusive environments.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Valpadesign
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrina-valbuena-b4382a205?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
