Meet the Team: Associate Designer Paula Bechara
Paula joined GOAT in 2019 as an Associate Designer. Before joining the team, she worked at Kronberg Wall, an Atlanta based firm, where she focused on adaptive reuse projects and residential projects.
Paula hails from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Paula and was exposed to various styles of architecture at a very young age, which sparked her interest in pursuing an architecture career. In 2018, she graduated from Tulane University School of Architecture with a Master’s degree in Architecture and a minor in Real Estate Development.
Outside of the office, Paula is a full-time dog mom to her 8-year-old mutt, named Hope, and a part-time chef. She loves wine, cheese and strolls on the beach. Connect with Paula on Instagram and LinkedIn and see how she answered our “meet the team” questions below:
Who is your favorite architect and/or designer?
My favorite architect firm is MASS Design Group, a non-profit organization whose mission is to research, build, and advocate for architecture to promote justice and human dignity. I have always believed that the built environment that we surround ourselves with affects everything from how we feel to how we interact with each other, which is why I love the work that MASS does. Each project is unique to the needs and wants of the community that surrounds it.
What would be your dream project?
My dream project is one that is meaningful and advocates for the better of the community by combating the housing crisis and/or providing a service to the community.
What design trend do you hope makes a comeback?
Don’t know if the trend ever left but architecture / design that is sustainable and puts the end user and their wellbeing first.
What topic could you give an hour-long presentation on with no preparation?
I’m not known for many words, but I can maybe hit an hour talking about my love for space.
What is your favorite local hangout?
My favorite local hangouts are Audubon Park for strolls, Basin for my favorite mussels and fries, and Bar Marilou for fancy drinks.
If someone were visiting the city for the first time, what neighborhood would you take them to first and why?
I would probably take them to my new neighborhood, Broadmoor and Freret, first because I would like to show them where I live. We’ll have brunch at Bearcat, tacos at Vals for lunch or Bah Mis at Mint.
What’s your most used emoji?
🥰
Bonus: What’s your Myers-Briggs Personality type?
INFJ-T, the advocate.
Paula Bechara, Associate Designer at GOAT.