Hey, I'm Maria Paula

I am a Spanish-Colombian designer working at the intersection of design research, strategy, service, interior, and visual design, using a human-centered approach to create products and services that enhance everyday life. I’m passionate about understanding people—their behaviors, needs, and challenges—and translating those insights into thoughtful, impactful interventions. My passion lies where design, psychology, and technology meet, shaping experiences that are both functional and impactful.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked across industries like healthcare, education, public services, hospitality, interior design, and architecture—each one deepening my understanding of people, communities, policies, and placemaking. These experiences have reinforced my belief that design is a powerful tool for driving change, whether by enhancing accessibility, improving service experiences, or shaping physical and digital spaces.

At the core of my work is a commitment to purpose-driven and conscious design. I strive to create solutions that are user-centric, inclusive, and meaningful, ensuring that lived experiences and diverse perspectives shape the outcome.

I hold a BFA in Interior Design from the Savannah College of Art and Design, and an MFA in Transdisciplinary Design with a minor in Civic Service Design from The New School - Parsons School of Design.

My Practice

I’m interested in applying participatory approaches to investigate and intervene in complex systems. My practice draws on theories and methods from a range of fields including service design, speculative design, psychology, architecture, storytelling and visual design.

Methods I use

In-Depth Interviews

Inclusive Faciliation

Co-creation Workshops

Ethnographic Research

Prototypes

Usability Testing

Service Blueprints

Synthesis

Areas of interest

I enjoy exploring, advocating for and embodying:

Intergenerational Knowledge: Sharing stories and traditions from marginalized communities, reclaiming forgotten histories, and encouraging conversations between different generations to build empathy, understanding, and connection.

Ecological Consciousness and Regenerative Practices: Fostering a deeper understanding of humanity's symbiotic relationship with nature, emphasizing regenerative approaches that honor the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Alternative Ways of Communication: Exploring the realms of visual and non-verbal communication, I am currently an American Sign Language student eager to expand my knowledge around diverse forms of expression. Engaging with ASL has sparked my curiosity in exploring visual communication, enriching my understanding of human expression and connection.

Mortality and the Uncertainty of the Unknown: Delving into the profound questions surrounding death and the mysteries of what may come after, I am deeply interested in exploring the human experience of mortality.

Reflective Activities: Participating in activities that cultivate mindfulness, introspection, and movement such as golf, has been a significant aspect of my life journey. From the age of 5 years old, I've played golf, a sport that has instilled in me invaluable lessons— sharpening focus, honing problem-solving skills, and nurturing patience.
Fun fact: I'm a NAIA National Champion

Let's Connect!

Shoot me an emailFind me on LinkedIn