Our Favorite 5 Business Tips for Women Owned Architecture Firms

In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re celebrating the incredible impact women have had on architecture. We’re sharing insights from some of the most influential female architects, as well as business tips for women-owned architecture firms, to empower all architects and designers—no matter their gender.

Keep reading to check out our Favorite Five stories that highlight the wisdom and strategies of women in architecture. These stories offer valuable advice on how to communicate your worth and earn the respect you deserve from clients.

This topic is particularly close to our hearts, which is why we’re shining a light on role models who embody the spirit of an Assertive Architect—drawing inspiration from Virginia Woolf’s A Room of One’s Own with the idea of “A Firm of Her Own.”

How many women are there in architecture as of 2022-2025?

Did you know that only 27% of AIA members are women?

According to the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the percentage of women among its architect members rose from 15.7% to 24.1% between 2012 and 2021. As of 2023, women make up 26.8% of AIA’s membership.

(AIA also mentions that, according to the NAAB, women represented just over half of students and graduates in NAAB-accredited architecture programs in 2022.)

But these stats only reflect AIA members, not the global population of female architects. In the US and the UK, women make up around 32% of the field.

Being a minority in the profession highlights the importance of confidently communicating your value and navigating challenges. That’s why it’s so important to share business tips for women-owned architecture firms as inspiration for all of us.

Our Favorite Five Stories about Female Architects

#1: Maya Lin

The Heroine’s Journey with a Controversial Twist

Maya Lin, the designer of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, is a powerful example of following your passion and staying true to your purpose, even when faced with controversy. While still in her senior year at Yale, she won a blind competition for the memorial’s design — now a black granite wall sunk into the earth, symbolizing ‘a gash’ in history.

Her concept stirred debate, but Lin stayed firm, believing that people could heal by confronting death honestly. Lin became the first female architect and the youngest person to design a memorial on Washington D.C.’s National Mall.

Lin’s journey reminds architects to focus on projects that make a difference, and exemplifies AMI’s Polarizing Position Strategy. Much like Bruce Lee, who took a stand in his own way, Lin’s work became polarizing in a positive light. We encourage architects to find a cause you’re passionate about and use it to set yourself apart.

Learn more about how Maya Lin became a polarizing force in architecture [here].

#2: Zaha Hadid

A Trailblazer Who Shattered Stereotypes

Zaha Hadid was a visionary who defied stereotypes in the male-dominated world of architecture. Her bold creativity and belief in her vision earned her the Pritzker Architecture Prize, cementing her as one of the most influential architects in the world.

In a profession where men outnumber women more than 2 to 1, Hadid faced skepticism but stood her ground: “People used to think women didn’t have enough logic… Well, that’s nonsense,” she said. “I’m sure I could build a skyscraper.” Her design for Leeza SOHO in Beijing, with its record-breaking atrium, is just one example of her groundbreaking work.

Hadid’s legacy continues to inspire architects everywhere. Find out what we can all learn from her fearless creativity [here].

#3: Giusi Mastro, Business Tips for Female Owned Architecture Firms

Co-founder of the Boldismo movement

An AMI Mastermind alumna, Giusi Mastro is known for her minimalist designs, influenced by her Italian roots. While her style is key, she credits her success to one thing: clear client communication.

Growing up in a family of artists in Southern Italy, Giusi always knew she was “born into art.” Her path led her to the University of Florence, where, as one of the few women in architecture in the late 1970s, she didn’t let being outnumbered hold her back.

Her designs aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re about emotional impact. One of her early projects involved transforming a “black bachelor pad” into a space that felt lighter and more inviting, thanks to a thoughtful approach to color. This was her first experience transforming lives through design.

Giusi’s ability to communicate her creative vision and transform spaces has helped her build a successful practice. Learn more about her journey and how she used strategies like consultations and referral programs to grow her business [here].

#4: Sally Woods

How Assertive Architect Sally Woods Learned to Say No

Sally Woods reached a turning point in her career when she grew frustrated with low-value projects. After joining AMI's SIX program, she learned the Low Commitment Consultation (LCC) strategy, which allowed her to qualify clients better, identify valuable opportunities, and minimize risks.

Shifting from a “humble servant” mentality to recognizing her value, Sally began charging for her expertise and embracing projects that aligned with her goals. She now stands firm in her worth, having found success by confidently saying no to projects that weren’t a good fit.

Listen to AMI’s coach, Richard Petrie, in a podcast with Sally [here].

#5: Ritu Saheb, A Podcast Revealing Prime Marketing Strategies for Every Designer

‘Fierce Warrior Princess' – From Mumbai to New York as an Architect

Ritu Saheb's journey from Mumbai to New York is one of resilience and creative problem-solving. As a woman in a male-dominated field, Ritu faced cultural and professional barriers, but she overcame them to establish a successful practice in NYC.

Ritu’s entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in her architectural approach, always seeking innovative solutions to optimize space. Richard Petrie, AMI’s coach, calls her a “Fierce Warrior Princess” for her determination to break through obstacles and succeed.

Ritu shares her marketing strategies, including the “Ask the Expert” approach, which has helped her thrive in a competitive industry. Listen to Richard’s podcast with Ritu [here].

Concluding business tips for women owned architecture firms, this Women's History Month

As we wrap up this celebration of Women’s History Month, we honor the incredible contributions of female architects who have shaped the field and inspired future generations. From Maya Lin’s groundbreaking memorial designs to Zaha Hadid’s iconic architecture, these women have proven that passion, perseverance, and a willingness to challenge the status quo are key to creating a lasting impact.

The stories of these trailblazing women serve as a powerful reminder that, no matter where you start, you can create a practice that reflects your vision and makes a difference in the world. Keep pushing forward, find your voice, and embrace your power as an architect—just as these incredible women have done.