Glocal 89 | Andrea Maldonado: Process and Sensitivity

From University to Professional Practice

Andrea Maldonado remembers her arrival at REIMS502 as an organic process. It all began during university, when she participated in an architecture competition that brought her closer to the studio and to Eduardo Reims, who would later become a key figure in her professional development.

“I remember that day perfectly. I was still in university, with that mix of excitement and nerves of someone who knows they are about to enter —even if only somewhat informally— the professional world,” she recalls.

That first encounter marked the beginning of a constant learning process. For Andrea, moving from school into the studio meant understanding that architecture is not reduced to a good idea; it also involves timelines, teams, criteria, responsibilities, and a far more complex reading of reality.

Organizing to Think Architecture More Clearly

One of Andrea Maldonado’s most significant contributions at REIMS502 is not tied to a particular building, but to the construction of internal processes. Her work helped structure manuals, methodologies, and dynamics that brought greater order to the studio’s operations.

“I believe my participation became much more consolidated when we began structuring work processes and manuals. Beyond architectural projects, we focused on the back office, on how we organize the studio,” she explains.

For Andrea, this back office work is not secondary. On the contrary, it represents a more conscious way of practicing architecture: repeating clear processes not to repeat projects, but to free up time, reduce errors, and think more deeply about each design decision.

REIMS502: Architecture Rooted in Context

With its main operations based in Querétaro, REIMS502 has established itself as a studio recognized for its innovative approach and its ability to develop highly specialized projects. Its work seeks to promote urban densification and the reactivation of existing centers through design that is conscious and sensitive to context.

Within that vision, Andrea has found a space for professional growth. Her role as partner combines strategic decision-making, team coordination, and a critical perspective on how internal processes can strengthen architectural quality.

Being a Woman in Architectural Practice

When speaking about her path as a woman architect, Andrea acknowledges that she has been fortunate to grow in respectful environments, both in university and in professional practice. However, she also recognizes that architecture remains a discipline where many women must constantly prove their judgment, especially on construction sites.

Her experience allows her to look at generational change with optimism. From her university years to her work as a professor, she has seen an increasingly strong, competitive, and committed female presence within the architectural field.

Leadership, Teamwork, and Critical Thinking

Today, Andrea understands that one of architecture’s greatest challenges lies in people: building teams, maintaining a shared vision, and creating clear processes that give coherence to each project.

“The greatest challenge is not to lose the ability to observe. The risk is not in digital tools themselves, but in what they could replace if they are not used consciously,” she reflects.

For Andrea, architecture must remain a critical and sensitive practice. Beyond efficiency or speed, its true value lies in its ability to impact people, cities, and everyday life.