Born in NYC, raised in Puerto Rico, educated in Tucson, and trained in Boston, Diane has learned the intersectional value of individual stories and multiple points of view. In 1999, she left behind a successful trajectory in corporate architecture to start what was to be a ‘temporary endeavor’ in the front room of their bungalow on Holly Street in the Willo District. She used this opportunity to challenge both the thinking and delivery of architecture along with her partner Michael Jacobs, who joined the firm in 2002. With an outstanding staff of creative thinkers, they have grown the firm’s portfolio to include dozens of sustainable, award-winning projects in the public realm. Diane's ability to work with client groups to create program-driven designs result in places that express warmth, delight, and a respect for practicality at all scales. 

 

Diane serves as Adjunct Faculty at ASUʼs School of Architecture for the Global Engagement Studio – Puerto Rico, is Founding Chair of the AIA AZ Womenʼs Leadership Group, and an active member of NOMA AZ. Outside of work – movement, adventure, color, canines, and children of all ages are prime recipients of her attention and love.

 

Professional Registration

Registered Architect, States of Arizona, Massachusetts

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Affiliations

American Institute of Architects, College of Fellows

National Organization of Minority Architects

Urban Land Institute

Local First Arizona For(u)m

 

Leadership Positions

AIA National Women's Leadership Group Advisory Committee - 2009 - Present

AIA AZ Women’s Leadership Group – Chair, 2011 - Present

AIA National Women's Leadership Summit Chair - 2011-2013

AIA AZ Board of Directors - 2011 - 2015

AIA AZ President, 2014

NOMA AZ Chapter – Member, 2015 - Present

Local First Arizona For(u)m Advisory Council - 2018 - Present

Rio Salado Architecture Foundation - 2018 - Present

University of Arizona CAPLA Future's Council - 2019 - Present

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Education

University of Arizona

College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture

Bachelor of Architecture 1988

 

School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA

Graphic Design

Summer 1980