Nikole D Cabrera

I attribute my success as a designer to the strength I gain from being a woman and a Latina in architecture—taking up space in this industry unapologetically and enthusiastically. I approach my work strategically, always striving to deliver the highest quality on every project, because caring about what you do should never be seen as a flaw. I’m proud to celebrate other women and minority professionals who are making their mark in any field, especially architecture and construction.

When you feel something shift—when you get that gut instinct to change everything you’ve learned or everything you once pictured as the “ideal” path—follow it. You’re not imagining it; you’re on the cusp of something better than you could’ve ever envisioned. Have faith. Take the leap. Bet on yourself. No one regrets taking a risk when it means following their heart. Is it terrifying? Absolutely. It wouldn’t feel miraculous otherwise. It’s not starting over; it’s starting fresh.

Trust your instincts and engage in your work fully and wholeheartedly. Our passion and emotional intelligence are strengths, not limitations, and they allow us to bring a unique and valuable perspective to every project and decision. You will be told, time and time again—often by people in leadership positions—not to take things “too personally,” or that by sharing your opinion, intuition, experience, or insight, you may be “too much.” The people who truly see you and recognize your value will never think you’re too much. Do not shrink yourself to fit their mold. Take up space. Make noise. Never settle for less than what you know you deserve. Don’t waste energy fighting battles with people who cannot or do not want to change; instead, protect your peace and find your tribe. It’s not easy by any means, but when you find the place where you belong, it will be worth it.

One of the biggest setbacks in today’s architecture and design field is a stagnant workplace culture, reinforced by leadership that seems resistant to change. The world has evolved, yet too many organizations still operate as if it hasn’t. Effective leadership is no longer about barking orders from the top or shifting priorities without clarity. Disorganization and unclear direction, masked as “flexibility,” only create chaos, benefiting no one. Blaming the industry or hiding behind “how it’s always been done” should no longer be acceptable. If outcomes matter, the process must be valued. If a company wants to succeed, it must invest in and genuinely listen to its employees—they are, without question, the greatest return on investment. The best leaders don’t just ask, “What can we do better?” or “How can we support you?” They listen, adapt, and most importantly, act.

Across many corporate environments, there is a growing recognition that humanity and empathy matter more than treating people like replaceable parts in a machine. Finding someone who deeply cares about their work—who is willing to nurture it in a world obsessed with speed and output at any cost—is rare. That person is one in a million. A true leader does everything in their power to ensure that person is seen, heard, and supported. Admittedly, the current economic and political climate has taken a toll on this industry and made this increasingly difficult, and the quality of our work is suffering as a result. Still, this moment is not an excuse for complacency. It is a call to responsibility. I believe we all have the opportunity and obligation to do better. Challenges like these are not an invitation to sit back and let the cycle continue. They are a demand that we rise, redefine our values, and realign our priorities if we truly want a better future for all of us.

The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are intentionality, balance, and creativity. I prioritize staying centered and protecting my peace, while committing fully to my role as a mother and cherishing time with my daughter. Creativity fuels me—whether through design, problem-solving, or shaping the spaces I call home—and I’m currently deepening that passion through my studies in Interior Design. I also value integrity and purpose. I believe in showing up wholeheartedly, doing work that reflects who I am, and creating environments (both at home and professionally) where people feel truly supported, seen, and inspired. Above all, I aim to move through life with clarity and compassion, making choices that align with my values rather than expectations placed on me.