Felipe Vera, Assoc. AIA, NOMA

Mississippi State University | Bachelor of Architecture

Felipe Vera is a designer who believes architecture is most powerful when it tells a story and serves its community. A first-generation college graduate and Mexican American, his design perspective is shaped by early experiences in the vibrant cities of Mexico and a deep respect for culturally responsive architecture.

His professional portfolio spans a diverse range of projects—from civic venues like the Von Braun Convention Center and The Orion Amphitheater to multifamily and adaptive reuse efforts like Lincoln Mill, as well as current work on the Memphis Brooks Museum and Satellite Music Hall. Felipe’s foundation in economic development and community-based design, established at the Carl Small Town Center, continues to guide his focus on collaborative, sustainable, and equitable solutions that deliver lasting impact in pragmatic and time-sensitive ways.

Felipe is actively engaged in conversations shaping the future of the built environment and remains closely attuned to evolving client needs and civic priorities. He serves on the AIA Memphis Board of Directors and the Emerging Professionals Committee, and contributes to the Urban Land Institute Young Leaders Group.

Outside of practice, Felipe extends his design thinking through lens and sequence—using photography and cinematography to explore how sound, space and light are experienced in motion. For him, architecture is not merely form, but a material and memorial experience—one that unfolds across time, memory, light, and atmosphere.

Felipe brings a thoughtful, intentional approach to every project—bridging design, culture, and community in ways that are both grounded and transcendent. He is committed to delivering design excellence that is as value conscious as it is visionary, ensuring that each solution is not only impactful but also economically responsive to his clients’ goals.

featured project: Memphis Art Museum