Her Story
About Lydia
Lydia Diboun is an emerging architect and digital fabrication specialist based in Buffalo, New York. She is currently pursuing a Master of Architecture at the University at Buffalo, where she also serves as a Digital Fabrication Fellow in the School of Architecture and Planning. In this role, she supports the Architecture Fabrication Factory, trains students in the use of advanced fabrication equipment, and contributes to digital and manual fabrication projects. Her technical experience includes CNC routing, water jet cutting, robotic fabrication, laser cutting, and 3D printing.
Alongside her academic work, Lydia works as an Architectural Staff member and drafter at Abstract Architecture PC, where she develops architectural solutions and applies her skills in Revit, site analysis, digital modeling, and architectural documentation. She previously worked as an independent contractor and apprentice with Assembly House 150, a nonprofit organization focused on construction education and workforce development. Her interest in architecture and fabrication is strongly influenced by her family background in carpentry and custom woodwork, which helped shape her interest in combining design, craftsmanship, technology, and efficient building methods.
Lydia has also gained valuable experience through academic research, collaborative design projects, and international architectural competitions. From 2025 to 2026, she participated in the University at Buffalo’s Resilient Campus international design competition, collaborating with MVRDV and RIOS on strategies for adapting the campus to future environmental and social conditions. The team received an honorable mention, providing Lydia with experience in site analysis, design development, documentation, and emerging architectural technologies. Her academic achievements include the Master of Architecture Academic Excellence Award and the Advanced Fabrication Graduate Fellowship, reflecting her strong performance, leadership, and contributions to digital fabrication education.v
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lydia
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to strong mentorship, a solid educational foundation, and experiences that broadened my perspective. Professor Stephanie Kramer at the University at Buffalo has been a significant role model and mentor over the past five years, while my undergraduate and master’s studies in architecture, leadership experiences, and study abroad journey across Southern Europe have strengthened my skills, confidence, and approach to design.
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