Paola Moya, Assoc. AIA

“Dance like nobody’s watching; love like you’ve never been hurt. Sing like nobody’s listening; live like it’s heaven on earth.” —Mark Twain

Paola Moya is a visionary leader driven by innovative designs, collaborative environments, and thoughtful placemaking. As the founder and chief executive officer of Moya Design Partners, Paola is the company’s creative director in charge of setting the firm’s strategy, direction, culture and brand. She oversees the studio’s operations and enjoys building teams. Paola is active in the design, evolution, and life of every project. She is a multifaceted designer with expertise in the fields of architecture, interiors, product, and visual design.

Paola’s client-centered and methodical approach has not only earned the trust and loyalty of clients, it has also contributed to her esteemed reputation in the industry. Paola personally collaborates with clients to check progress and implement feedback quickly and effectively. She consults with residents, partners, and stakeholders to identify vision / scope / goals for each project. With in-person design charettes, web-based video feeds, and advanced technology, Paola is known for keeping communications open and live. In turn, she coordinates with each MOYA team member to ensure timely completion of required deliverables.

The Washington Business Journal has recognized Paola as one of the region’s “Power 100 Playmakers”; a top “40 Under 40” professional; and a “Minority Business Leader of the Year.” In 2019, she was named a top “40 Under 40” professional by Building Design + Construction Magazine, and the WBJ honored Paola among seven top immigrant business leaders for her firm’s contributions to the architectural landscape of the city. She has been named “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” by the DC and Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, and her work has been recognized with design excellence awards from AIA, the National Organization of Minority Architects, Graphic Design USA, International Design Awards, and Built by Women (Beverly Willis Architecture Foundation).

Paola is a frequently sought speaker at local and national AIA chapters, the Urban Land Institute, and the National Building Museum. She has served on the boards of the Montgomery Housing Partnership and the District of Columbia Building Industry Association. She earned a master’s degree in architecture with a real estate development concentration, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from The Catholic University of America and holds a finance certification from The University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School Executive Education program.

Paola enjoys her hobbies outside of work, which include finding new salsa dancing venues, cultivating her love of martial arts, and discovering new rhythms and flavors in different corners of the world. She enjoys her newfound passion for running, although she says it is coming along slowly!

Federico Olivera-Sala, Assoc. AIA

“Nothing is impossible.”

Federico Olivera-Sala knows how to deliver a client’s vision from conception through construction while navigating the complexities, details, and nuances of urban mixed-use developments. Federico knows the pulse of market demands with the vision to push boundaries while working within regulations and code requirements. He executes beautiful designs that attract and delight clients while maximizing return on investment. In addition to performing feasibility studies, embracing best practices, and staying abreast of building processes, Federico’s responsibilities include promoting our firm regionally, as well as mentoring our next generation of architects.

In over 20 years of work in the DC area, Federico has significantly contributed to the transformation and restoration of the urban fabric of Washington DC. Since joining MOYA in 2017, Federico has led several projects for MOYA in DC and Maryland, including the site evaluation and master planning of the new 245,000 SF DC Department of General Services (DGS) headquarters on Minnesota Avenue NE; the design and construction of Diane’s House, a 42-unit affordable housing project; the design of the revitalization of DC’s Capitol Hill’s 300,000 SF Eastern Market Metro Park; and 2442 MLK Jr. Avenue SE, a new mixed-use residential development with 112 units that will offer 100% affordable housing in the Southwest Washington DC community.

Federico is originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and graduated from the Lange Ley Institute and the University of Belgrano School of Architecture. In Argentina, he owned an architecture and urban planning firm, and was a faculty member at his alma mater. Shortly after arriving in Washington DC, Federico started working at SK&I, and a year into the job, he became the planning division director. He participated in over two dozen projects in DC and along the East Coast. His mixed-use experience alone has resulted in 13,000+ units and townhomes added to the DMV region. Some of his signature mixed-use projects include The Darcy & The Flats in Bethesda, MD; The Apollo on H Street in Washington, DC; Dock 79 across from Nationals Stadium; Chase Point Condos in DC’s Friendship Heights; and Sheridan Station in Southeast DC.

In a previous life, Federico was a DJ in an Argentinian club! Today he enjoys spending time with his wife, three children, and two dogs.

Vinay Ganeshan

“Make it simple, but significant.” 

Vinay Ganeshan is a Principal and Senior Project Manager at Moya Design Partners. He brings over 20 years of experience in architectural design and project management, specializing in residential development. Vinay has shown an uncanny ability throughout his career to manage all phases of a design project, from inception to design development and construction, while also having an eye for business opportunities and creating solid ties for long-term strategic partnerships. Vinay’s drive has contributed to his key involvement in 25 major projects, with a strong focus on mixed-use and residential. These projects have led to upwards of 4,000 plus built apartment units in the DMV, Pittsburgh, and Atlanta area.

As an architect with a strong concern for end-users and their experience, Vinay works tirelessly to reconcile the client’s requirements, budget, and vision by providing the best possible housing for consumers. He is currently the senior manager on several mixed-use developments at MOYA, including 2442 MLK Jr. Avenue SE, a new mixed-use residential development with 112 units that will offer 100% affordable housing in the Southwest Washington DC community; the interior architectural design of a multifamily project for the Alexandria Housing Development Corporation within the diverse Arlandria-Chirilagua community; and 1133 North Capitol, a 13-story complex with 430 units that will be targeting LEED Gold certification.

Prior to joining MOYA, Vinay worked for several architectural and design firms in the DMV area, such as Dwell Design Studio, where he was the Principal in Charge and played a vital role in the firm’s expansion and success; and as Project Manager at SK+I and Grimm and Parker Architects. Some of his signature projects are: The Ian, a 375-unit rental apartment complex in Herndon, VA; LEED-Silver certified The Modern on M, located near DC’s Southwest Waterfront with 276 units of sophisticated living quarters; and The Edison, a 217,000 SF mixed residential and retail development in the Union Market area of DC.

Vinay obtained his Bachelor in Science for Architecture from Howard University and a Diploma in Architecture from the University of Guyana. Vinay’s perfect day is spent on the golf course, perfecting his stroke or taking his children to a soccer match. He is a huge Chelsea F.C fan.

Ligia Saldana, AIA

“Imagination is more important than knowledge.” —Albert Einstein

Ligia Saldana is a senior architect at Moya Design Partners, where she en¬sures the firm’s projects are exquisitely designed, respectful of time and budget, and meet both the client’s vision and the needs of end users. As a project leader and team player with 25 years of experience coordinating with clients, builders, and consultants, Ligia’s diverse background allows her to anticipate potential obstacles and proactively propose the best course of action. She is solution-focused, understanding that each project brings a unique set of challenges, while keeping the client’s needs first and foremost in mind.

Ligia has valuable experience with diverse building types. She worked on the restoration of the century historic marketplace in the heart of Ponce, Puerto Rico, the reuse and expansion of the old fire station next to the Teatro La Perla, and the Alvarado Library for UPR Ponce. Ligia supervised construction for the Fundación Biblioteca Rafael Hernandez Colon and was the project manager for the expansion of the Plaza Las Américas. She has led multidisciplinary teams through all phases of design and construction, been responsible for permitting, and has specialized expertise with adaptive preservation. Meeting client needs in an innovative fashion is a welcome challenge that motivates her to think outside the box.

Ligia has led the MOYA team on several projects in Washington, DC, and beyond, including the luxurious Spa at MGM Springfield; business interiors and environmental branding for the DowntownDC BID; interiors for the Downtown Day Services Center for individuals experiencing homelessness; workplace interiors for Bread for the World; and a workspace renovation and expansion for Paoli Law Firm. Ligia volunteers with Limbs for Haiti, a program uniting six professors and 60 second-year architecture students to expose them to the reality of designing in a devastated landscape while realizing the important role of architecture as a life-changing agent.

Originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Ligia received her Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University. Outside of work, she enjoys camping with her three sons, playing tennis, and reading. Ligia considers raising her sons her life’s project. As a Girl Scout gold medalist, she became a Cub Scout master while her sons were involved.

Marilaura Guerrero, Assoc. AIA + IIDA

“A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.” —J.A. Shedd

Marilaura Guerrero is a project designer at Moya Design Partners with nine years of design experience in mixed-use and multifamily architecture as well as broad expertise developing cost-effective and stunning interiors. Marilaura uses her extensive project management skills to coordinate project consultants. She supports project teams by delivering comprehensive sets of drawings and construction documents and collaborates with the client to achieve the project vision. With advanced skills in dynamic problem solving, Marilaura knows every project is unique and values the opportunity to contribute to her city’s built environment. Nothing rejuvenates her more than blending nature and design to enhance well-being and sustainability in architecture.

Marilaura has been the project manager on several recent MOYA projects in Washington, DC, including the renovation and modernization of DCPS Brent Elementary School, the renovation of DGS/DPR Eastern Market Metro Park; architecture and construction administration for Diane’s House, a four-story 42-unit, multifamily, affordable housing complex for women who are veterans, recovering addicts, victims of domestic violence, and returning citizens; interiors for the Downtown Day Services Center for individuals experiencing homelessness; interiors for Bright Beginnings; interiors for Paoli Law Firm; and workplace interiors for Bread for the World, a DC-based advocacy group that works to end hunger at home and abroad.

Marilaura is originally from Puerto Rico. She received a Bachelor of Environmental Design from the Universidad de Puerto Rico and a Master of Architecture from Savannah College of Art and Design. She says that being in nature always makes her feel rejuvenated, and nothing is more exciting than watching live music performances in unexpected places.

Elisabetta Fanelli

“To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders.” —Lao Tzu

Elisabetta Fanelli is an Art Director at Moya Design Partners, where she develops and designs stunning branded elements, unique editorial pieces and striking digital artwork. She also contributes to digital communications, including the planning, strategy and tactics for the firm’s social media channels. Elisabetta approaches her work with a combination of methodical structure, efficiency and creative flair, preferring to sketch designs by hand before translating her concepts into digital format. Her extensive educational background and seven years of impressive design experience allow her to deliver compelling art in all forms, from print designs and branded materials, to web and logo designs.

Originally from Italy, she earned an Executive Masters in Social Media Marketing and Web Communication from IULM University in Milan; received a master’s degree in Architecture from Dessau Institute of Architecture in Germany; completed an Erasmus Exchange in Parametric Architecture from Ecole Spéciale d’Architecture in Paris; obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Architecture from Politecnico di Milano in Milan; and completed an Erasmus Mundus Exchange from Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico in Mexico City. In her spare time, she likes to teach yoga and practice meditation to stay grounded. Elisabetta also loves to spend time in nature, cook wholesome meals and travel the world. A fun fact about Elisabetta is she started elementary school when she was only four years old and could already read!

Rada Turcanu

“Our time on this earth is sacred, and we should celebrate every moment.” —Paulo Coelho

Rada Turcanu is a Financial Accountant with over eight years of experience in the private and public sector (Big 4 alum). At Moya Design Partners, Rada takes care of bookkeeping, compliance, issuance of financial statements, HR and Operations. Rada loves to travel and discover new places, from the museum in a nearby town to eating at a hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Hawaii, while collecting fridge magnets from every place she visits. (Her goal is to fill the fridge!) Rada loves to cook with wholesome ingredients and enjoy food with her loved ones.

Rada received a Bachelor of Science in Commerce from Santa Clara University with an accounting major, and an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts with an emphasis in Business/ Information Systems from De Anza College.

Adrian Saunders, Assoc. AIA + IIDA

“Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” —Steve Jobs

Adrian Saunders is a project manager at Moya Design Partners with over 12 years of award-winning design experience for federal, local, and private clients. From digital communications to design and brand management, Adrian leads MOYA’s visual design team on graphic design, web design and WordPress development, as well as lending his extensive project management expertise to our architecture team.
With a strong eye for detail, Adrian’s technical skills include InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, offset and digital print procedures, XCode iOS app development, Salesforce administration, social media, Drupal 7, PHP, ArcGIS, qGIS, Blender3d, Final Cut Pro, Apple Motion, photography and videography. He has led architectural projects from institutional and commercial interiors to residential and specialized architecture.

Adrian has been the project manager for several recent MOYA projects, including interiors for the historic renovation of Douglass School in Loudoun County, VA, the DowntownDC BID office interiors renovation, and an interiors renovation for HR&A Advisors in Washington, DC. In addition to projects in DC and VA, Adrian also has architectural experience in California and South Carolina.

Adrian’s methodology is to sweat the details and meet the client’s needs every step of the way. He strives to keep open lines of communication, ensuring team interactions are frictionless, schedules and budgets are kept, and the client’s end product is functional as well as beautiful.

Adrian resides in Silver Spring, MD, with his wife, daughters, and dog. He grew up with Caribbean-born parents in the Washington Metropolitan Area and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Catholic University. When he is not working, he loves technology, sci-fi and having fun in the sun with his family.

Cristina Alvarez, Assoc. AIA

“Happiness comes when your work and words are of benefit to yourself and others.” —Buddha

Cristina Alvarez is a project architect at Moya Design Partners where she uses extensive base building experience to build models and layout interiors for buildings, additions, renovations, and adaptive reuse. From residential units, lobbies and common areas to amenities and back-of-house services, Cristina collaborates with project MEP, civil and structural engineers from schematic design through construction drawings. Cristina enjoys handling, coordinating and detailing with all the other disciplines involved in a project and integrating their input into the design. She has materials selection and research expertise and experience delivering major projects under deadline.

Cristina has a Universal Design Certification from the Virginia Housing Development Authority and a combined Bachelor and Master of Architecture and Urban Design from the School of Architecture and Urbanism at the University of Belgrano, Buenos Aires. A fun fact about Cristina is she won ‘best costume’ in the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the International Interior Design Association’s annual Cosmo Couture fashion show in 2016 and 2018!

Rodrigo Diaz

“The creative process is not controlled by a switch you can simply turn on or off; it’s with you all the time.” —Alvin Ailey

Rodrigo Diaz is a Proposal and Content Writer at Moya Design Partners where he contributes with his experience in copywriting, line editing and research. Besides being a skilled writer, Rodrigo has extensive experience in economic development and policy, providing informed insight to projects and proposals. Rodrigo’s blend of data informed policy experience and liberal arts education allows him to work on proposals from the technical and humane perspectives, bridging the gap between technical needs and stakeholders.

Born and raised in the mountains of Southern Mexico, Rodrigo studied Literature at the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Chiapas, before moving to Spain where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history and an MA in Latin American Studies from the University of Salamanca. He wrote a PhD thesis on Economic Subjectivity and holds a Micromaster in Data, Economic and Development Policy from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab. He lived in several European cities but holds Lisbon close to his heart.

Rodrigo is trained in several modern dance techniques and spends every minute of his spare time dancing and exploring forms of movement and expression. A fun fact about Rodrigo is that despite his aging knees, he still can dunk and is a plucky defensive point guard.

Luna Moya

I am the great ant, the immigrant.

Luna X Moya (They/She pronouns) is a Marketing Advisor at Moya Design Partners, where she leverages her experience as a documentary film director and editor to create MOYA’s marketing content and provide our clients with stunning ideas.

Luna’s filmmaking is supported by The Sundance Institute and Catapult Film Fund and was featured in Variety Magazine and The Washington Post. Luna is a formerly undocumented, queer, and chronically ill filmmaker. Her debut directorial film was “The Rights of Butterflies” (AFI Docs 2012.) The short documentary launched with a screening tour to successfully help pass the DREAM ACT in Maryland. Her second film, “What The Pier Gave Us,” started as a short (BAM Cinema FEST 2021), and a feature-length version is now in production.

Luna proudly transferred from a community college in Maryland to NYU, where they received a full-ride scholarship bestowed to two students in the Tisch Arts Department. They graduated with a BFA in Film & TV production. Currently a fellow at the Sundance Latine Film Fellowship. In the past, they were a fellow at the Sundance Art of Editing Fellowship, Sundance Accessible Futures Intensive, Karen Schmeer Film Editing Diversity in the Edit Room Fellowship, and the Associate Artist-in-Residence at Atlantic Center for the Arts by Natalia Almada.

Pablo Güiraldes

“Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men’s blood and probably themselves will not be realized.” —Daniel Burnham

Pablo Güiraldes is MOYA’s Senior Master Planner; he is a firm believer that urban revitalization and preservation go together. He has over 35 years of experience in urban design and development, participatory planning and sustainable urbanism and architecture. Pablo is passionate about weaving together the pieces of urban fabric that make every city unique, while prioritizing spatial quality, and sees regeneration as the process of bringing a neighborhood or street to life, through a combination of building renewal and integration with public space. He is an architect and urban designer who has worked with a host of clients in both the public and private sector to inform sustainably rich, innovative designs.

Before joining the MOYA team, Pablo served as the National Director for Argentina’s Urban Development for the Secretariat of Housing and Urban Development and was the General Director of Urban Regeneration for the City of Buenos Aires, leading public agencies, and teams responsible for Legislation, Programs and Projects in fields such as Urban Development, Technology, Sustainability, Urban Regeneration and Historic Preservation. Pablo also spent several years at architectural design firm SK+I in Maryland, where he oversaw multifamily residential, mixed-use, and urban design projects in the DMV plus other regions throughout the US.

Pablo has a Master’s Degree in Architecture from the University of Maryland, and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Belgrano in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He enjoys maintaining a pulse in the academic world, and has taught and lectured extensively in Argentina, Latin America, the United States and Europe, including an annual Urban Development Course in which students must address all the issues involved in mixed-use, mixed-income, and sustainable housing developments.

Noor Makkiya

“The menu is not the meal.” —Alan Watts

Noor Makkiya is a Project Manager at Moya Design Partners and has 10+ years of experience from both a professional and academic architectural lens. Her urban design and architecture experience spans the globe, having worked in Baghdad, Amman, London, Ghana, New York, and Washington, DC on projects in areas such as master planning, residential & affordable housing, healthcare, post-war architecture, urban regeneration, and streetscape revitalizations.

Prior to joining MOYA, Noor worked as a Designer at Cooper Robertson, where she collaborated on multiple master planning and urban design efforts. One of her project highlights was the Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Rebuild by Design competition, where the focus was on strengthening the vitality and resiliency of mixed-use/commercial areas that are impacted by the threat of coastal flooding. Community feedback helped shape the design solutions, and these concepts were featured in exhibits, including being shown at the World Financial Center in New York.

Noor has a zest for entrepreneurship and innovation, which our team and clients will both benefit from. She is co-founder of an all-female award-winning design and research studio, WMN atelier. One of Noor’s latest projects is a vision hospital in Baghdad, where she co-led the design of the healthcare facility following American health standards, while managing the procurement of materials and equipment with global suppliers.

She received a Master of Science in Architecture and Urban Design (MSAUD) from Columbia University and bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering from Applied Science University in Jordan. Noor also retains ties with the academia world as a teaching instructor, having taught at the University of Maryland’s School of Architecture and at her alma mater, Columbia University.

Jensen Alao

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” —Various

Jensen Alao is an interior designer with seven years of professional experience designing and leading teams for commercial, institutional, and residential applications. A detail-oriented problem solver, she is committed to providing efficient, thoughtful, and beautiful design solutions for every client.

Jensen’s portfolio of work covers multi-family, single-family, and institutional developments in the DC area. She was the lead interior designer for The Linnea (3514 13th St NW), St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church (McLean), and the Embassy of Malta. Jensen also participated in workplace design for government, trade associations, and non-profit organizations. Projects include Innovative Defense Technologies, Lorton Prison Museum, and the Center for American Progress. Aside from her vast experience in the DC area, Jensen has worked in Miami (USA), Quito (Ecuador), and Svendborg (Denmark). She is also proficient in an array of design tools and applications including Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Studio, PlanGrid, Fieldwire, Procore, and SketchUp, making her adaptable to working with any team and on any platform.

Jensen received her Bachelor of Environmental Design in Architecture from North Carolina State University and NC State European Center (Prague), and she later obtained a Master of Arts in African Studies, from the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies. Whenever she gets a chance to get away from DC, you will find Jensen escaping to the beach. She loves to get away to the beach to enjoy the sand, listen to the sound of the waves, and breathe in the fresh, salt air.

Johnathan J. Styles, AIA, NCARB

“Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life” Steve Maraboli

Johnathan J. Styles, AIA NCARB,  is a Project Architect at Moya Design Partners, where he oversees the architectural aspects of design, production, and construction documents. In addition, he coordinates with clients, staff, and consultants to deliver outstanding design and ensure projects move along smoothly. Johnathan’s  experience as Project Architect and Project Manager encompasses hospitality, multi-family, mixed-use, and master planning. He is a registered architect in the District of Columbia and Georgia.  

Johnathan brings  eight (8) years of design experience  Before joining MOYA, he worked at Architecture Incorporated in Washington, DC and POH in Atlanta, Georgia. Besides, Johnathan is a member of the AIA DC Urban Design Committee and, throughout his career, has served as a tutor and mentor for younger architects. 

Johnathan obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Florida Atlantic University; and his MA in Architecture from the University of Westminster, London. In addition, Johnathan is deeply interested in fitness and music.  

Marisa King, AIA, LEED A.P. BD+C.

“One should be light like a bird and not like a feather”  —Italo Calvino

Marisa King is a Project Architect at Moya Design Partners. She brings her critical eye and attention to detail to lead the architecture team in a wide range of projects, from Programing to final delivery. In addition, Marisa’s understanding of sustainability provides MOYA’s clients with alternative perspectives and smart design solutions.

Marisa obtained her Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Virginia Tech, obtaining Magna Cum Laude honors. Besides her professional activity, Marisa does volunteer architecture work in developing countries and serves as a mentor for young girls who aspire to be designers.

Daniela Schenone

“The road to success is always under construction.” —Lily Tomlin

Daniela Schenone is a project designer with over eight years of experience as an architectural designer and construction manager, plus technical expertise with BIM platforms such as REVIT. Daniela has worked on commercial and institutional projects throughout the United States, Latin America, and South America. She is involved in all phases of a project: from design development to construction, and final delivery.

Daniela is a graduate of the University of the District of Columbia’s Bachelor of Science in Architecture program. A fun fact about Daniela is that she is fluent in English, Spanish and Portuguese. While being multilingual has great benefits, it can result in Daniela forgetting how to say a word in one of these languages, while remembering it in the other two!

Lucas Maschwitz

“What you’re reading here is basically a person having a conversation with his own biography.” – David Lynch

Lucas Maschwitz is a project designer at MOYA Design Partners, with our Architectural team. After performing an internship in London, where he worked renovating Victorian houses, he returned to Buenos Aires to join the international Swiss-Argentine office named RDR. He led as a project coordinator in Patagonia called Morro Chico.

Lucas graduated from the University of Buenos Aires where he taught design and mentored his students in the final process of their thesis. It was memorable helping student apply their personal interests to an architectural project. He enjoys investigating new technologies applied to construction and incorporating parametric methodologies in his present-day designs.

Lucas describes himself as a curious architect who is always trying to find creativity through different disciplines such as filmmaking, visual arts, memes and graphic humor.

Maja Tokic, AIA

“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of it to anyone else.” –Charles Dickens

Maja Tokic is a Project Architect at Moya Design Partners, bringing 11+ years of experience in a full range of architectural services, including master planning and initial concept development, detailed design documentation, and finishes/furniture selections. Since joining MOYA in early 2022, Maja has been integral to the company’s exponential growth.

Before joining MOYA, Maja led the Ft. Worth Downtown Masterplan and Clarksville, Maryland Masterplan, the Sagamore Spirit Distillery design. Her portfolio demonstrates renovation, multi-family housing, particular purpose, and residential design.

Maja obtained her Masters in Architecture from Washington University in St Louis. Maja has volunteered as an instructor in Washington, DC. Public Schools to teach children about the built environment. Maja enjoyed a Fulbright Fellowship in Helsinki, Finland.

Luis Fernando Orozco

“If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.”—Martin L. King

Luis Fernando is an Architectural Designer at Moya Design Partners, where he brings his eight-year experience in housing, corporate, and urban planning projects in Mexico. His designs integrate the environment and the landscape to create a fluid and visually attractive experience. At Moya Design Partners, Luis Fernando develops conceptual designs for landscapes, housing and urban planning. A consummated team player, he works closely with clients and stakeholders throughout the design process, keeping an open mind to ensure client’s satisfaction.

Prior to joining Moya, Luis Fernando worked for Javier Sánchez Architects and as an Independent Architect in Mexico, before joining WeWork. Luis Fernando’s creativity and flowing style have earned him awards and recognitions in Architectural Design competitions, winning the 18th Arquine Competition in 2016 with the design of the MEXTROPOLI Pavilion. The design, co-authored with his brother, earned the jury’s praise for integrating the city as a homely space for dialogue and cooperation.

Luis Fernando earned a Bachelor of Architecture at the University of Colima, in Mexico. Resilient and active, he enjoys running in the city, perhaps to keep his eyes open to the hidden corners of the ever-surprising Mexico City.

Ana Polettini

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I always knew the woman I wanted to be.” ―Diane Von Furstenberg

Ana Polettini is an Interior Designer at Moya Design Partners with international project experience in residential, real estate, enterprise, and retail sectors. Her advanced technical skills, proficiency in managing complex projects, and deep understanding of the design and construction process are tremendous assets for our Interior Design team. Ana is involved in all project phases at MOYA, from programming and interior test fits.

Prior to joining MOYA, Ana worked as Senior Architect Lead at LATAM WeWork where she excelled at generating ideas and bringing innovative designs as part of an international team. During her tenure, she oversaw planning and coordinating the entire architectural design for the projects she completed.

Ana received her Bachelor of Architecture and Urbanism from Mackenzie Presbyterian University in Brazil, and also completed graduate course in enterprise and project management in civil construction at this university. A fun fact about Ana is her love of event and party planning/design. This stems off Ana’s love for hosting events to meet new people and even become better friends with co-workers!

Luis Mendoza

“Utopia is on the horizon, much as I may walk, I’ll never reach it. So, what’s the point of utopia? The point is this: to keep walking.” —Eduardo Galeano

Luis Mendoza is a project designer at MOYA, and brings his international experience in residential, commercial, interior design and hospitality architecture projects to the team. He is involved in project planning and management, and his versatility and proactiveness as a team member allows him to solve problems efficiently.

Prior to joining MOYA, Luis worked at Emerge Developments as a Senior Architect and as an Architect Project Manager at global design and branding agency Conway + Partners. Luis also co-founded and served as the CEO at COMPLOT, a community where architects can convene to ideate and brainstorm design ideas. Luis’s creativity skills and his passion for entrepreneurship have allowed him to coordinate diverse teams to implement improvement through his visualization and 3D model skills.

Luis received his Bachelor of Architecture at the Simón Bolívar University in Venezuela and his specialization in Building Information Modeling at the University of Buenos Aires. Luis loves to capture the expressions and emotions of others through the lens – he does this by photographing strangers and gifting the photo to these individuals.

Carola Luna

“A goal without a plan is just a wish.” ―Antoine de Saint-Exupéry 

Carola Luna is an interior designer who brings her versatile experience in corporate and residential projects to the MOYA team. Along with her creative designs, Carola is also a skilled project coordinator and her advanced technical skills with programs such as REVIT, AutoCAD, and Enscape.

Carola’s portfolio of work includes being the Interior Design Lead at WeWork LATAM, where she led the concept and schematic designs of various WeWork offices in the Latin America market. She was also a senior architect at VDV Arquitectura in Buenos Aires, leading residential projects from inception to construction.

Carola received her Bachelor of Architecture from the Simón Bolívar University in Venezuela. Outside of work, Carola enjoys decompressing with a variety of activities – whether it is going for a CrossFit session or savoring a dessert while watching her favorite show, Friends.

Gabriela Dinerstein

“It seemed that we had reached the end of the road and it turns out that it was just a bend open to another landscape and new curiosities.” ―José Saramago

Gabriela Dinerstein is a Project Designer at Moya Design Partners, where she lends her advanced technical skills and creative design ideas to every phase of a project – from concept creation, schematic design, to finalizing construction documents. Gabriela’s body of work spans corporate, residential, civic, and commercial projects, which is a testimony of her versatility and adaptability to different architectural project needs.

Prior to joining MOYA, Gabriela worked at the firm MRA+A in Argentina; some of her project highlights include working on the state-of-the-art, sustainability-driven Centro Empresarial Libertador; and being the BIM lead for the firm in a project in collaboration with Foster & Partners new 750,000 SF office towers in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Gabriela has also worked at a BIM Consulting firm, creating designs and construction documents for a variety of projects, including the interior design of the WeWork offices in Argentina and Chile, high-rise buildings, offices, and affordable housing.

Gabriela obtained her Bachelor’s in Architecture at the Universidad de Buenos Aires and spent a term at the École Nationalle Supérieure d’Architecture de Paris before going back to Buenos Aires for Postgraduate Studies, where she obtained a specialization degree in Building Information Modeling (BIM). Outside of work, Gabriela loves experimenting in the kitchen with baking, especially if it involves making a decadent chocolate cake!

Renata De Miguel Orozco

“Live your life each day as you would climb a mountain. Climb slowly, steadily, enjoying each passing moment; and the view from the summit will serve as a fitting climax for the journey.”  —Harold V Melchert

Renata is a Junior Architectural Designer for Moya Design Partners, where she contributes with her innovative designs and her expertise in urban planning and sustainability. Renata is truly a Renaissance woman, interested in the Arts, History and Science. Product of her natural curiosity, her designs and projects organically combine beauty and functionality.

Prior to joining Moya Design Partners, Renata collaborated in many diverse architectural projects all over Mexico, encompassing interior design, remodeling, and urban planning. Some of her highlights include the renovation of a protected 1905 house in Durango, or the Aquarium of Mazatlan. Both projects are proof of her unique combination of artistic expression and technical proficiency.

Renata lives in Mexico City, where she earned a Bachelor in Architecture with an Environmental Design track from the Universidad Iberoamericana. She has also spent one semester at the Lorenzo de Medici Institute in Florence, where she focused in Architecture of Transportation and Public Space Design. An avid hiker and mountaineer, Renata has undertaken expeditions in Mexico, to the Iztaccíhuatl Volcano, and to the Trolltunga, in Norway, enduring the harsh winter conditions. A Fun fact about Renata is that she enjoys solo traveling and hiking.

Daniela Oria

“Stop leaving and you will arrive. Stop searching and you will see. Stop running away and you will be found.”— Lao Tzu

Daniela is a Junior Architectural Designer at Moya Design Partners with four years of experience in design and construction projects. Daniela believes that success relies on knowledge and perseverance. She is always looking to learn by researching and listening to others.

Before joining Moya Design Partners, Daniela collaborated on diverse architectural projects in Mexico and worked at Tatiana Bilbao Estudio, mainly focused on design, construction, and remodeling. Some of her most important projects include the renovation of a house in Durango Street protected by the National Institute of Fine Arts, multiple reconstruction projects for Reconstruir MX, and the Aquarium of Mazatlan.

Daniela lives in Mexico City, where she obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from the Universidad Iberoamericana. She also spent one semester at UIC University in Barcelona. A fun fact about Daniela is that she loves to dance Flamenco and will always stop in her tracks to take pictures of architectural details and interesting textures.

Alfredo Gonzalez

“A leader is interested in finding the best way – not in having his own way.” – John Wooden 

Alfredo Gonzalez is a Project Designer at Moya Design Partners, bringing with him 10+ years of experience designing and developing office, retail, and residential projects. He has worked on cross-functional teams in six countries and understands the needs of managing multiple projects simultaneously. He is knowledgeable in all project phases, having worked on projects from concept design to construction administration.   

Alfredo has previously worked as an architect at Gensler’s Mexico City office and as senior project architect at WeWork LATAM. During his tenure at WeWork, he developed 40+ end-to-end projects for clients such as Amazon, Microsoft, and IBM. Some of his signature projects include a 300,000 SF mall retrofit for a high-end shopping center; WeWork’s first market project in Costa Rica, a 121,600 SF building that includes full enterprise floors for Fortune 100 clients; and Peninsula, a mixed-use, retail project that covers 2,690,000 SF near the Tijuana airport. 

Alfredo received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from Tecnolgico de Monterrey. He is technically savvy across a variety of design tools and applications, including Revit, AutoCAD, and Navisworks. To spur his energy and creativity, you will likely find Alfredo shooting hoops on a basketball court or cheering on his favorite team, the San Antonio Spurs off the court.  

Frida Colín

“Our imagination is struck only by what is great; but the lover of natural philosophy should reflect equally on little things.”- Alexander Von Humboldt 

Frida Colin has over 5 years of design experience, collaborating on projects that cover retail, civic spaces, urban planning, and mixed-use/residential developments. Her design inspiration comes from the function and value of the building materials. Along with her outstanding design skills, Frida is also well-versed with project management and subconsultant coordination; she is an invaluable asset to any project. 

Prior to joining MOYA, Frida worked at Mexico City-based firm Tatiana Bilbao Estudio. Some of her project highlights include the 300,000 SF Roble 700 mixed-used development, that includes 151 units and 53,800 SF of retail space; and Campos Eliseios, a residential project that covers 107,000 SF.  

Frida obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Architectural Studies and Urbanism from the Iberoamericana University. During her undergraduate studies, she received an honorable mention for the Manuel Garibay award. Outside of work, Frida loves to travel and meander through the streets of the cities – she feels this is the best way for her to learn about the intricacies of the places she visits. 

Mariia Voloshyna

“Put your heart, mind, and soul into even your smallest acts. This is the secret of success.” —Swami Sivananda

Mariia Voloshyna brings over ten years of experience to her role as an architect on projects in the Ukraine, U.S., and Europe for hotels, restaurants, offices, private houses, urban mixed-use developments, and health care. Mariia is skilled with master planning and creating primary designs and working drawings for diverse applications. At Moya Design Partners, Mariia develops conceptual designs for residential and public buildings, urban structures, and landscapes. She completes 3D modeling and visualizations for all our client’s needs, including green building analysis. Mariia is an open-minded, goal-oriented team player who takes pride in constructive communication and effective project management.

Mariia holds a Master of Architectural Design from the Kharkov State Technical University of Civil Engineering and Architecture. She continually updates her skills through professional development courses at the University of Pennsylvania.

Omar Morales Quiroz

“When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don’t adjust the goals; adjust the action steps.” –Confucius

A Project Designer at Moya Design Partners, Omar is an architect who specializes in developing complex projects with BIM technology. Omar brings his technical skills in BIM, CAD, Revit, and other modeling tools to ensure MOYA’s projects minimize risk and optimize design options. In addition, Omar is experienced in a range of typologies from residential, commercial, cultural, and public space projects.

Prior to joining MOYA, Omar honed his skills at some of Mexico’s most innovative firms, where he coordinated large-scale projects among several disciplines, from engineers to designers.

Omar obtained his Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the Universidad de Guadalajara, where he was also the recipient of several design awards.

Catalina Losada

“One attracts what one radiates into the world.” —Lama Ole Nydahl

Catalina Losada Salgado has more than 12 years of experience in graphic and creative design. She is a highly competent art director and strategic communicator qualified to coordinate and lead multidisciplinary teams. With a high sense of responsibility and commitment, Catalina is always in search of excellence and resolution of the objectives to be achieved. She has worked for several publishing houses and magazines in the private sector and specializes in editorial design: magazines, books, and all kinds of print collateral. Catalina is an expert in branding and visual identity—design thinking, branding, logos and advertising for all your print and publishing needs.

In her free time, Catalina enjoys practicing Buddhist meditation and yoga. But her biggest artistic hobbies are lettering and embroidery.

Romina Pereyra

“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” —Confucius

Romina Pereyra is a graphic designer with 10 years of experience in advertising agencies and design studios. Romina has a special passion for illustration, especially poster design. As well as being influenced by the history of Polish graphic design, she continues her professional development by attending workshops and classes in contemporary illustration practice. At Moya Design Partners, Romina supports our visual design team with logo design, proposal design, and graphic design for our clients’ marketing and corporate communications. On each project, Romina strives to find the right balance between good design and the perfect message.

Romina graduated from the University of Buenos Aires. She’s a vegan who loves animals and is very fond of soccer, sharing initials with her most-loved team, River Plate! Romina also loves traveling and rock concerts, and if both come together, that’s even better.

Salvador Mendoza

Salvador is a Senior Graphic Designer at Moya Design Partners, where he contributes to our award-winning Visual Design department with stunning branding design, environmental graphics, and marketing collateral. With over 25 years of experience, Salvador brings his keen eye for design to complement the Art Director’s ideas and enhance our client’s vision.
An expert in branding, brand applications, illustrations, and marketing collateral, Salvador understands the design process as a complex puzzle where the different dimensions of a product or service can be expressed through diverse media to reach a wide audience and create a lasting impression.
Originally from Mexico, Salvador obtained his bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design from the Universidad Iberoamericana. An entrepreneur at heart, Salvador is deeply interested in the business side of design and is a proven project leader. 

Florencia Branchicella

“I don’t know everything I just know what I know.” —Tsubasa Hanekawa

Florencia is a Graphic Designer at Moya Design Partners where she creates stunning social media posts and helps MOYA maintain an impressive and consistent visual language all through our Social media outlets. Florencia brings nine years of experience in graphic design, media content creation and editorial design.

Florencia has worked for corporate clients, including Fox Network Group in Latin America where she was a senior producer, and content creator. She has worked extensively as a consultant for social media, tv branding, and YouTube content creation and management, including the art direction of music videos for international artists.

Florencia obtained her bachelor degree in Graphic Design from the prestigious University of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Florencia’s passion for design, video and graphics is only equaled by her immense curiosity and love for languages. She speaks Korean and Japanese.

Aura Telman

“Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.”— Rumi

Aura Telman is HR + Diversity Equity and Inclusion Manager at Moya Design Partners where she helps in creating an inclusive work environment through her holistic approach to human resources. Aura’s communicative skills and her deep strategic thinking are critical in knitting together employees’ and leadership success. Aura’s combination of a people’s first approach and data-driven management ensures healthy and sustainable growth.

Aura’s 10 years’ experience in HR and project management include both private and nonprofit organizations, where she implemented creative solutions for recruitment, productivity measurement, and organization-wide engagement. Aura has served in advisory roles for leadership and management, improving employee performance, career planning, and organizational development. Aura’s passionate concern for inclusion, safety, and employee’s mental health manifests in thorough policy development that enhances a firm’s ability to respond to challenges.

Aura obtained her Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management from the Kwantlen Polytechnic University in Vancouver. She is a certified Mindfulness Practitioner and a Member of the Certified Professionals in Human Resources of British Columbia. Aura is an adept cook who very much enjoys experimenting and learning new recipes from all around the world, especially those with unique and original spices and hot sauces.

Kareem Priestley

“A cheerful heart is good medicine.” —Solomon

Kareem Priestley is an Accountant at Moya Design Partners, who brings over 18 years of finance experience to the team. He has worked in all areas of the accounting department – from accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, financial reporting as well as all administrative and treasury functions. Kareem ensures timely and fluid financial relations with clients, vendors, and subconsultants.

Prior to joining MOYA, Kareem was the Director of Accounting in two New York-based music recording industry firms, Royalty Solutions and the Concord Music Group Inc. Along with managing the general accounting for the firms, Kareem also assisted with external audits and championed the seamless migration of financial data to new software programs.

Kareem obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Accounting at Clark Atlanta University.

Tishelle Caines

“Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller

Tishelle Caines is an Accounting Associate at Moya Design Partners. She brings over 14 years of financial expertise to our team and has worked in all areas of accounting. She ensures that our books are up to par on an ongoing basis. Tishelle wears many different hats in finance, having worked on accounts payable, cash flow management, accounts receivable, payroll and financial reporting. She ensures timely financial interactions with our various contractors, vendors, and clients.

Prior to joining MOYA, Tishelle worked in accounting for a financial services firm and software development company, overseeing financial and accounting functions and responsibilities. Tishelle loves to travel and being from the Caribbean she enjoys visiting places with beautiful beaches. She also enjoys crocheting in her spare time.

Bernardo Corrales

“Ad astra per aspera.” —Solomon

Bernardo Corrales is the Information Technology Manager at Moya Design Partners. Bernardo’s insightful solutions and his data-informed approach help everyone at MOYA succeed and provide a seamless IT experience. Thanks to his knowledge and thorough planning, MOYA’s Global Virtual Team is ahead of the curve and can guarantee an around the clock service to our clients, anywhere in the world.

Bernardo has worked as Cyber security expert and IT consultant for different organizations and institutions in Latin America, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates. Bernardo was the IT Security Specialist at the Banco Nacional de Costa Rica for over a decade where he led the implementation of diverse security and communication protocols.