Catarina was born and raised in Portugal (more specifically the Azores islands) and moved to DC in 2005 after living and working in New York for almost 10 years and obtaining a degree in architecture from the prestigious Syracuse University School of Architecture in 1998. Her unique background starts with a childhood in remote islands where nature and architecture are dramatically juxtaposed at every corner, followed by extensive travel, giving her a global viewpoint. These early formative experiences, combined with a rigorous architectural education and several years practicing in New York and Washington, translate into a serious, fresh and elegant approach to architecture.

Throughout her 20 year plus career, Catarina has successfully executed hundreds of projects of various types and scales. She is licensed in NY, MD, VA and DC, and NCARB accredited.

Prior to founding ARCHI-TEXTUAL, her work included NY penthouses, restaurants, office interiors, hotels, single family, multi-family, adaptive re-use, fitness centers, art galleries, retail, higher education, athletic facilities, etc.

This vast array of project types that Catarina has been involved in over the years ultimately led her to a multi-year leadership role on one of the largest ARRA-funded federal projects in Washington DC: the Renovation of the Herbert C. Hoover Department of Commerce Building, a 2 million sq ft. historic landmark building. The project scope included full systems and utilities replacement, major restoration of various historic spaces and building exterior, new office space throughout, a new day care center, a new cafeteria, the new National Aquarium entrance, the introduction of ADA accessibility and perimeter security, among many other sub-projects.

Prior to her work on the Department of Commerce Building, Catarina was also the Project Manager and Project Architect on several prestigious law firm and similar office projects in Washington DC, and before that varied project types in NY.

At ARCHI-TEXTUAL, Catarina is the lead designer and Project Manager of the firm's diverse portfolio.