Meet Paula Villarraga

We recently connected with Paula Villarraga and have shared our conversation below.

Paula, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.

Since I was young, I’ve been captivated by the concept of functionality and how it blends with creativity to solve everyday problems. This curiosity evolved into a passion for architecture and wellness as I realized how profoundly the spaces around us shape our feelings, productivity, and quality of life.

As an architect and interior designer, I aim to create environments that do more than just serve a function, they evoke emotions and fulfill deeper needs. Whether it’s designing a healing space for patients, crafting a home that embodies comfort and sanctuary, or shaping workspaces that inspire innovation, I believe design has the power to transform how we experience life.

Parallel to this, I’ve always valued health and movement. Becoming a triathlete and wellness trainer was a natural progression from my own journey of cultivating habits that enhance mental clarity, confidence, and resilience. Living an active lifestyle taught me how interconnected our surroundings and personal well-being are. A beautifully designed, functional space can uplift us, and a healthy body and mind enable us to thrive in those spaces.

Inspiring people to feel better and think better is a fundamental part of why I do what I do. Whether through design that nurtures a sense of peace and possibility or promoting wellness habits that empower self-confidence and clarity, my purpose is deeply rooted in helping others live their best lives. By aligning functional, beautiful spaces with an active, healthy lifestyle, I hope to show people how small changes—inside and out—can create a lasting, positive impact.

My purpose lies in integrating these two passions: design and wellness, to inspire and empower others. By creating environments that nurture well-being and encouraging healthy habits, I hope to help people find balance, confidence, and joy in their lives, just as I have in mine.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I was born in Bogotá, Colombia, and my journey has been shaped by a passion for creativity, problem-solving, and well-being. After earning my degree in Architecture from Cornell University and collaborating with renowned brands like The Ritz-Carlton and Waldorf Astoria, I founded PAULA V DESIGN. My studio specializes in high-end residential architecture, custom interiors, and renovations, focusing on creating spaces that are not just beautiful but also nurturing and functional.

What makes my work special is the philosophy that drives it: I believe that our surroundings profoundly affect how we feel, think, and live. My design approach revolves around balance, simplicity, and timeless elegance, integrating natural light, clean lines, and organic textures to craft spaces that inspire and rejuvenate. For me, design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating environments that enhance well-being and productivity, where people can truly thrive.

My commitment to wellness extends beyond design. As a triathlete and advocate for holistic living, I’ve developed the PV METHOD, a fitness philosophy rooted in mindset, endurance, and precision movement. This approach reflects my belief in the connection between a strong mind and body and how they influence our personal and professional success. Through the PV METHOD, I aim to empower others to embrace growth, confidence, and resilience in their wellness journey.

What excites me most is the synergy between design and wellness. Whether I’m designing a space or guiding someone through a fitness transformation, my goal is the same: to create harmony and inspire growth. These two passions influence and enhance each other, allowing me to bring a unique perspective to both.

At the core of everything I do, whether in design or fitness, are my clients. I see myself as their partner, fully committed to helping them achieve their goals, whether it’s creating their dream sanctuary or unlocking their potential through wellness. Together, we can create environments and lifestyles that are not only elegant and functional but also deeply enriching and inspiring.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are consistency, grit, and a commitment to lifelong learning. These have shaped not only my personal growth but also the success of the businesses I’ve built.

Consistency is about showing up every day, even when things aren’t going as planned. Building a business isn’t easy, it’s filled with more “no’s” and setbacks than we anticipate. But staying consistent, even during tough times, keeps us moving forward and brings us closer to our goals. It’s about believing in the process and trusting that every small step counts.

Grit is another essential quality. Staying committed to your passions and the purpose behind what you do is vital, especially when the road gets challenging. It’s easy to feel discouraged, but grit helps you push through obstacles with determination and resilience. For me, remembering why I started and focusing on the bigger picture has always been my anchor.

Finally, a willingness to learn has been transformative. The world is constantly evolving, and staying curious and open to new ideas has kept me adaptable and innovative. Whether it’s mastering new technology, learning from industry trends, or reflecting on mistakes, growth comes from a mindset that embraces change and values every experience as a lesson. I firmly believe that we never stop learning, and our ability to grow through this is critical to personal and professional success.

For those just starting their journey, my advice is simple:

Be consistent. Develop habits and routines that keep you aligned with your goals, even when motivation dips. Consistency builds momentum.

Embrace your grit. Find your “why” and let it fuel you. Don’t let challenges define you; let them strengthen you.

Stay curious. Be open to learning from others, from experiences, and from your mistakes. Seek mentorship, take risks, and never be afraid to ask questions or try new things.

To women especially: remember that your voice, vision, and passions are powerful. We have the ability to create, inspire, and lead in ways that impact the world deeply. Surround yourself with people who support your growth, believe in your worth, and remind you of your resilience. Together, we can redefine success and empower each other to achieve our dreams.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

I truly believe that no one gets to where they are alone, and I’m deeply grateful for the incredible people who have supported and shaped my journey. My family has been my rock, always reminding me of my determination, my accomplishments, and the reason I started, especially during moments when I’ve struggled with self-doubt or impostor syndrome. Their unwavering encouragement has been a constant source of strength and motivation, helping me find the confidence to take the next step, even when it felt intimidating.

I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to work with remarkable teams, colleagues, and mentors who have profoundly influenced my growth, both as a person and a business owner. I had the honor of learning from mentors who not only believed in me but also shared their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives. They taught me the importance of teamwork, the value of playing to everyone’s strengths, and how delegating can lead to extraordinary results.

One of the greatest lessons I’ve absorbed from my mentors and colleagues is that we’re all better together. Collaboration allows us to achieve things we could never accomplish alone, and every person brings something unique to the table. I carry these lessons with me every day, striving to lead with the same generosity and wisdom that my mentors showed me.

To this day, I find myself inspired by the people I’ve worked with and what I’ve learned from them. Whether it’s a technical skill, a way of thinking, or simply how to approach challenges with grace, their impact has been immeasurable. I’m so grateful for their influence and for the opportunity to continue growing and paying it forward by supporting others on their journeys.

Contact Info:

• Website: paulavdesign.com & paulavfit.com
• Instagram: paulavdesign

Image Credits

Ruben Vagalume / She exposure