Rachel’s ‘Yes you can’ mantra has been driving her since the inception ofVida back in 2009. As a visionary entrepreneur with a forward-thinking mindset, and a desire to enrich communities, Rachel recognized the opportunity to provide a hospitality overlay to the multi-family market.

Raised in Texas, and having graduated from the University of Austin in 1998 with a degree in Interior Architecture, Rachel experienced a symbiotic cultural space. Austin’s limestone and use of natural materials made a significant impact on her, as well as the unique harmony of Austin’s culture. Later, San Antonio provided an opportunity to work for GSC Architects, while surrounded by local history and historical architecture.
Intrigued by rugged terrain, outdoor adventure, and proximity to largerWest Coast cities, Rachel and her family re-located to Portland. At Soderstrom Architects, then later Bora Architects, she

focused on designing schools and performing arts centers.
This experience solidified in Rachel the importance of functionality, program, and a yearning to provide an asset to the community.The diplomacy of the committees, leaders, and stakeholders around her, all working together towards this common civic goal inspired her.

Rachel found her passion for community-oriented place making at MGA when she delved into the world of hospitality and mixed-use housing. She continued to develop this love when she began to buildVida Design in 2009, during the heart of the recession.The vision forVida was a simple one; provide clients with an all-inclusive, boutique design experience, and incredible service, with no attitude.

Rachel’s adventurous can-do mentality has continued to drive her, asVida Design has expanded nationwide.This expansion was made possible through her continuous organization, close attention to clients & stakeholders, and continuous study of the end user.Vida Design is now a thriving firm of 73 with an unwavering vision for design excellence.

Rachel functions as the CEO and President, and exercises her expertise in community building viaVida’s projects, as well as the community and microcultures within the firm at large. She is extremely involved in forging relationships with new clients, supporting design teams, and strategic visioning.

Rachel loves new experiences and seeks out opportunities for travel and adventure. Her curiosity brings her and her family to many unique places characterized by culture, cuisine, art, and literature. She leverages the knowledge she gains from her travels to spark innovation within the firm.