Name: Eliana Peralta-Sapienza

Title: Project Architect

Company Name: BBS Architects, Landscape Architects and Engineers PC

Real estate associations or organizations that you are currently a member of:

• NCARB
• USGBC

What led you to your current profession?

My dad is a civil engineer and a developer, ever since I can remember, he used to take me to the project sites with him, so my love for buildings started at a very young age. I’ve always loved the mountains and nature, and since I started college had the tendency to do sustainable design in every design module. For this reason, I went back to college and earned a masters degree in sustainable buildings and environments. I love to analyze the impact of buildings in the environment and in people’s health.

In the past year, what project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of?

About six months ago I became an EDGE building expert. Every year I set myself a professional target, normally sustainable design focused to keep myself updated in the latest practice in sustainable architecture and put it into practice in my workplace.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I always wanted to be an architect. Many kids come up with many different professions, but since I was a little kid, my mom says I always said I wanted to become an architect when I grew up.

Who was/is your mentor and how did s/he influence/help you in your career?

My dad. He’s my biggest mentor, has always encouraged me to be a better person and professional. Also, Steve Dudek, my masters degree mentor, he taught me so much about sustainability not only in my career but also in daily sustainable living.

What trends will dominate your industry in the coming months?

I hope and I truly believe that sustainable design and sustainability in general will be the future, if we want to have a real future. Carbon emissions must be reduced, and this is something that government has realized has to happen, especially at a state level. We are very lucky to live and work in one the of most, so health and wellbeing of the people and the environment will be a priority in the coming months and years.

How do you contribute to your community or profession?

NYS school districts are the majority of BBS clients, so I can say that our work, and my work, is directly improving learning environments for our kids, who are our future. I am constantly pushing for sustainable practices for the district’s facility renovations, that easily become a learning experience for the kids, and spread out to the community.

What books or social media influencers would you recommend to other women?

Building Reuse by Kathryn Rogers Merlino, Architecture de Containers by June Kotnick, Follow RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) and AIA. Also, follow WELL Building Institute, and USGBC on the social media for events and news related to green practices.