Meet Melanie Guerrero, Project Designer

Framework Architects is pleased to welcome Melanie Guerrero, Project Designer, to our team. With a background shaped by a wonderful blend of left-and-right brain talent, Melanie brings an integrated approach to her work and produces designs that are beautiful, creative, and seamlessly functional.

We caught up with her recently to get to know her a little better now that she is part of the Framework family. Here’s what we learned.

What led you to a career in architecture? What do you like about it?

Architecture was the perfect intersection of everything I’ve always loved—art, engineering, math, history, and philosophy. I have been drawing my whole life, taking art classes in high school and college, and I simultaneously fell in love with engineering. When I finally discovered architecture, I realized it combined all of my passions under one focus, and I knew I’d found my calling.

I grew up in Houston and am the first person in my family to go to college. My parents are from Mexico, and they instilled in me a drive to pursue something meaningful. Architecture gave me that—the honor to create something that lasts well beyond the people who designed and built it.

Why did you join Framework?

I love the people and project diversity here. From the moment I was introduced to the team, I knew this was the right fit. I’d like to say I have great intuition, and I could tell right away that this was a place where I could grow professionally and not feel afraid to ask questions.

The culture here is genuinely collaborative. Everyone seems invested in building each other up, and for me, that’s everything. Half-way through my interview process, I had lunch with Katty and Megan and that experience truly sealed the deal. It felt like a place where the people are genuinely passionate about the work they do.

What would you say your design philosophy is? What are you passionate about?

First and foremost, I design to uplift communities. Ultimately, I think that’s why most of us go into architecture. Think about it: you’re creating buildings that will outlast you! What a great responsibility and an even greater privilege.

I’m also drawn to the breadth of what architecture can be and the impact it produces. I’ve studied many building types and styles, and I find beauty in all of them. Given the wide variety of projects to work on here at Framework, I’m genuinely excited to continue expanding my range and abilities here.

Exploring, cooking, baking, and creating are daily activities for Melanie.

What’s something someone would be surprised to learn about you?

I love oil painting. I even made my own canvas from scratch, which entailed stretching a canvas onto a wooden frame to staple onto. I usually like to paint portraits, animals and landscapes like Bob Ross. I’ve also had fun exploring other mediums like pencil, pen and watercolors throughout my life.

Cooking and baking are some more hobbies I find therapeutic. Whether it’s a Mexican dish or Italian street food, I’m up for any challenge if it looks delicious. My mom is an incredible cook, and that passion for food has definitely rubbed off on me.

Outside of the kitchen, I can be pretty outdoorsy. Austin makes that easy, for which I am grateful for, as I can more easily explore my love of camping, running, and fishing. I also have a rescue pit bull who is endlessly entertaining. I’ve loved getting to know the city since settling here during graduate school, and I’m still discovering new places.

Also, I am both a Longhorn and an Aggie...I went to UT Austin to receive a Master of Architecture and absolutely loved the experience. Though, before that I went to Texas A&M for my undergraduate degree and am a proud Aggie through and through!