Annabella Garcia, Intl. Assoc. AIA
Annabella Garcia, Intl. Assoc. AIA, is a Senior Project Manager and Designer for The Martin Architectural Group’s South Florida Division. She leads the design, documentation, and administration of diverse architectural projects, including residential, commercial, mixed-use, urban infill, and affordable housing developments across the U.S. and internationally. Her expertise in development planning for multi-acre sites enables clients to maximize land use and property potential, creating thoughtful, functional, and visually compelling environments.
With a strong focus on affordable and workforce housing, Annabella has dedicated her career to designing communities that balance comfort, dignity, and long-term value for residents. Her work exemplifies a commitment to social responsibility, sustainability, and design excellence, reflecting her belief in architecture’s power to positively impact lives. Over the years, she has contributed to a portfolio of award-winning and notable projects, recently earning four prestigious awards—two platinum, one gold, and one silver—for a particularly significant development.
A lifelong learner and advocate for professional growth, Annabella credits her mentors, including renowned land planner Andrew T. Sullivan, for shaping her approach to leadership and design. Her leadership style is both encouraging and disciplined, helping teams thrive while navigating the challenges of a competitive, minority-led career in architecture. Outside of work, she enjoys horseback riding, a passion she has pursued since childhood, and remains actively involved in organizations such as AIA, NPARV, ICSE, the U.S. Green Building Council, and various housing and builder associations.
• Universidad José María Vargas - B.Arch.
• International Council of Shopping Centers, ICSC
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my perseverance, confidence, and positive mindset. These qualities have guided me through challenges, kept me focused on my goals, and continually pushed me to grow both personally and professionally.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to believe in myself. That simple mindset shift has empowered me to pursue opportunities with confidence and trust in my own abilities.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women entering this industry to believe in themselves and stay committed to their goals. With determination and persistence, the dreams you’re working toward truly can come to life.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is the high level of competition—both within companies and across the broader industry. This competitive environment, however, also presents opportunities to differentiate yourself, sharpen your skills, and continuously elevate the quality of your work.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me, both in my work and personal life, are honesty, sincerity, and staying true to myself. I believe these principles build trust, foster meaningful relationships, and guide me in making ethical and thoughtful decisions.
Locations
The Martin Architectural Group PC - South Florida Division
Philadelphia, FL 19103