2026 Ones To Watch - Rising Stars: Heena Shah, DIG Architecture

“For all projects, especially complex assignments, Heena expertly balances the needs of clients, design teams, governing-authority stakeholders and contractors. Her uncanny sharp eye for detail and tireless efforts to achieve innovative solutions – all while maintaining a “big-picture” viewpoint – translates to on-time groundbreaking designs. Unflappable under deadline pressure, Heena is truly a standout leader.” 

What accomplishment or project so far in your career are you most proud of?
The project I am most proud of is the Inline Baggage Handling Project for United Airlines at Newark Liberty International Airport. This three-story, 70,000 s/f facility centralized baggage handling and TSA screening operations for Terminal C, replacing multiple standalone screening systems. The project required complex integration with the existing terminal and significant modifications within an active airport environment. It was my first project with United Airlines and marked the beginning of a strong, ongoing professional relationship with both United Airlines and the Port Authority.

Who has been a mentor or influential figure in your career, and what is the most valuable advice they have shared with you?
I had the opportunity to work with Edmond Hakimian, whose mentorship played a significant role in developing my strong understanding of NYC zoning regulations and building codes. That expertise became a cornerstone of my professional development, shaping the projects I undertook and providing knowledge I continue to rely on every day in my practice. A guiding principle consistently upheld was finding effective solutions as a team rather than assigning “blame.” Prioritizing teamwork and fostering open collaboration when addressing challenges has helped me deliver successful outcomes.

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and what path brought you to your current role?
My interest in architecture developed from a strong appreciation for both design and problem-solving. I was particularly drawn to the opportunity to create spaces that are not only visually compelling but also functional for the people who use them. Throughout my career, I have worked on a diverse range of residential and commercial projects, each of which deepened my understanding of the profession. My technical expertise, combined with a keen attention to detail, has enabled me to successfully lead and deliver complex projects.