2026 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Shannon Strobhar, VIVO Architecture

“Shannon Strobhar exemplifies what it means to be a rising star in architecture. At VIVO, she delivers thoughtful, well-executed design work across our projects, contributing to test fits, construction documents, and proposal submissions. Shannon brings clarity, curiosity, and professionalism to every challenge. Her initiative, technical skill, and collaborative mindset reflect a maturity beyond her experience, qualities that position her as an emerging leader in the industry.”

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and what path brought you to your current role? My career in architectural design comes from a fundamental desire to learn from hands-on experience. Becoming an architect requires humility and expert communication, as well as the technical skills required in constantly emerging software. I initially obtained a Bachelor of Design from the University of Florida; I’m now pursuing a Master of Architecture from Boston Architectural College while working full-time. I’ve achieved my current role as Designer at VIVO Architecture because of the lasting relationships I make with all consultants/designers I work with on architectural projects.

What accomplishment or project so far in your career are you most proud of? I’ve always had a passion for graphic design that I enjoy exploring in magazine and social media creation. Before starting my current position at VIVO Architecture, I gained 2 years’ experience at a Florida firm (ODP Architects). While in this designer position, my project team and I won the 2024 International Property Awards Category of “Best Residential High-Rise Development” for a printed advertising book on a project currently undergoing construction: Villa Miami. I was particularly proud to produce a physical amalgamation of my previous firm’s graphic and architectural experience.

Who has been a mentor or influential figure in your career, and what is the most valuable advice they have shared with you? I owe appreciation to many, but especially to Nicholas Torres: assistant project manager at VIVO Architecture. He has taught me so much technically, taking me under his wing for complex projects, and exercising humble leadership on the many projects we’ve worked on together. He provides a wide range of architectural knowledge, but his personal relations with everyone he works with make him exceptionally inspiring. He exemplifies the kind of leader I aspire to become.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of your industry? The tool of generative AI I see as something that will shape the architectural industry in a positive way, granted that we can continue to find ways to keep its usage transparent. Visual AI can portray initial images that render an architect’s narrative, giving initial goals for designs only architects can draft. The more AI is incorporated with our digital processes, the more we must acknowledge its necessity for faster creation. I’m specifically curious to see how it can become more sustainable, in a career where we have a duty to be aware of the resources required in construction.