Alina Valcarce, Founder and Design Director of Valcarce Architects, has built an impressive career that bridges cultures, disciplines, and groundbreaking innovation in architecture. Her journey into the field was deeply influenced by her diverse upbringing and international experience.

Growing up in Cuba and Spain, I was constantly surrounded by rich architectural history, from colonial influences to contemporary European design. That exposure ignited my passion for creating spaces that are not only aesthetically compelling but also deeply connected to their environment. My professional experience across the UK, China, India, Vietnam, and the Middle East has further shaped my approach, allowing me to blend cultural elements into designs that feel both timeless and innovative,” shares Alina.

As the leader of Valcarce Architects, Alina oversees the firm’s strategic vision, project development, and creative direction. She plays a pivotal role in driving innovation, sustainability, and collaboration across all projects. Under her leadership, the firm has gained recognition for its ability to seamlessly integrate architecture with nature, crafting spaces that enhance both human experience and environmental harmony.

Leadership, to me, is about inspiring a team to push creative boundaries while maintaining a strong sense of purpose. I prioritize a collaborative approach, where every project benefits from the diverse expertise within our team. Whether we are designing a luxury resort, a residential high-rise, or a sustainable habitat, our process is rooted in a deep understanding of the client’s vision and the site’s natural context,” she adds.

A defining aspect of Valcarce Architects’ philosophy is the seamless integration of architecture and nature, where theline between built space and landscape is blurred. Every project speaks a unique language, harmonising structures with their surroundings to create environments that feel organic, immersive, and alive. This commitment to unity between architecture and landscape ensures that each design is more than a building—it is an extension of nature itself.

Working in the Middle East has brought both opportunities and challenges, particularly in balancing rapid urbanisation with sustainability. As the region’s architectural landscape evolves, it reflects ambitious visions that are shaping the future. “One of the biggest challenges has been aligning architectural innovation with sustainability, especially in extreme climates. However, we have embraced this as an opportunity to develop cutting-edge solutions that minimise environmental impact. By integrating prefabrication, passive cooling techniques, and sustainable materials, we ensure that our designs arenot just visually striking but also resilient and environmentally responsible,” comments Alina.

Valcarce Architects is currently engaged in several high-profile projects that push the boundaries of design, creativity, and sustainability. The firm is preparing to unveil

a series of exciting projects in the first quarter of the year for both the real estate and hospitality industries in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Among them, projects for NEOM stand out as some of the most ambitious and transformative endeavors. NEOM, with its vision for futuristic and sustainable urban living, aligns perfectly with the firm’s commitment to innovation and ecological integration.

Looking ahead, Valcarce Architects is set to expand its influence in the architecture and design industry by continuing to merge creativity with sustainability. The firm remains at the forefront of developing forward-thinking designs that cater to the evolving needs of urban living and hospitality. Their visionary approach is shaping cities where architecture is no longer a static element but a dynamic, responsive force that evolves with nature and human needs.

Alina elaborates: The future of architecture is about creating meaningful spaces that enhance the way we live, work, and interact with nature. At Valcarce Architects, we are committed to designing environments that not only inspire but also contribute to a more sustainable and harmonious world. We are constantly exploring new technologies, materials, and methodologies to push the industry forward. Our vision is to continue shaping cities and landscapes with designs that leave a lasting positive impact.

With an unwavering passion for innovation, Alina Valcarce and her firm continue to redefine architecture, setting new standards for creativity, sustainability, and visionary urban development in the Middle East and beyond