Mahya Salehi, AIA
Mahya Salehi, AIA, is the Founder and Principal Architect at Mahya Salehi Studio Architecture + Interiors, where she leads the design of innovative and engaging spaces for ambitious clients across the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. With a distinctive approach that integrates architecture, interiors, landscape, and construction, Mahya’s work emphasizes creativity, functionality, and thoughtful responsiveness to environmental and user conditions. Her commitment to design excellence has earned her recognition within the architectural community and a dedicated following of professionals and clients alike.
Mahya began her professional journey in Iran, earning her Bachelor of Architecture from Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, before advancing her studies at the University of California, Berkeley, where she graduated with distinction from the intensive IN Arch Advance program. She honed her skills through diverse roles at firms including Baran Studio Architecture and Alumglass Facade Consultancy, gaining experience from architectural design to research and development. Licensed through both the NCARB and AIA, Mahya combines technical expertise with a forward-thinking design philosophy that embraces emerging tools and technologies to enhance her creative process.
Beyond her practice, Mahya contributes to the broader architectural community as an Executive Committee Member of AIA CRAN, while also dedicating time to volunteer initiatives, including tutoring and human rights-focused graphic design. Fluent in both English and Farsi, she brings a global perspective to her work and mentorship, fostering opportunities for dialogue, inclusivity, and innovation within the field. Whether through design, leadership, or advocacy, Mahya continues to shape spaces—and communities—with intelligence, creativity, and heart.
• National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
• In[ARCH] advanced_U.C.BERKELEY
• The American Institute of Architects (AIA)
• Ferdowsi University of Mashhad - B.Arch.
• Volunteer graphic designer for human right causes
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong educational foundation, including my Bachelor of Science degree, and my active involvement in leadership roles, such as serving as Vice Chair of the Architectural Committee. These experiences have honed my skills, expanded my perspective, and reinforced my commitment to excellence in all that I do.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to pursue your dreams with determination, even in the face of challenges. Stay focused, believe in your abilities, and don’t let obstacles deter you from achieving your goals.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is navigating a male-dominated industry, particularly as a woman of color in architecture. At the same time, this presents opportunities to break barriers, inspire others, and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse professional landscape.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are commitment and perseverance, even in the face of challenges, and the dedication to creating opportunities that pave the way for future generations.