Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Amanda Bonvecchio. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Amanda, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So, let’s start with trends – what are some of the largest or more impactful trends you are seeing in the industry?

In the field of architecture, one of the most significant trends I’ve observed is the shift toward sustainable and adaptive reuse of existing structures. This movement is not just a response to environmental concerns but also to economic and cultural factors. As an architect who specializes in historic preservation and adaptive reuse, I find this trend both exciting and deeply meaningful. Let me illustrate this through a recent project of mine. A few years ago, I was approached by a client who had acquired an almost century-old industrial warehouse in a predominantly industrial area of Hialeah. Most people had looked at the property and thought the best thing to do would be demolish it and start fresh. However, as we explored the structure, we discovered not only its sturdy bones but also its rich story. This building had served as a mattress factory since the 1930’s and later as a manufacturer of war cots during the Second World War. It was clear that its value extended far beyond its walls.
Instead of demolishing, we transformed it into a world class entertainment venue, now known as Factory Town, preserving key architectural elements like the original exterior concrete walls and steel beams while integrating modern utility systems for function. The result was not just a one of a kind space but a gathering place for exceptional talent and music lovers that honored its past while meeting contemporary needs.
This trend of adaptive reuse offers incredible opportunities. It allows us to reduce waste, lower the carbon footprint of construction, and create spaces with character and history that resonate with people. However, it also comes with challenges. Working within the constraints of existing structures often requires creative problem-solving and collaboration across disciplines. There’s also the challenge of balancing modern demands with historic integrity.
Yet, the rewards outweigh the challenges. Adaptive reuse not only contributes to sustainability but also strengthens community identity and fosters a sense of continuity. It’s an approach that aligns with the growing awareness that architecture is not just about buildings but about creating meaningful, lasting connections between people, places, and history.
In a world that often prioritizes the new, I believe this trend is a reminder of the beauty and value of reimagining what already exists. It’s about honoring the past while embracing the future—a philosophy that is becoming increasingly central to how we shape our built environment.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Thank you for the opportunity to share my story. My name is Amanda Bonvecchio, and I am a licensed architect specializing in historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and innovative new developments. My journey into architecture began in Miami, where I was born and raised, surrounded by vibrant cultures and iconic architecture. Growing up in a city known for its Art Deco heritage and tropical modernism instilled in me a deep appreciation for how design shapes our experiences and reflects our identities. Because of my Italian heritage, I travel to Europe frequently, drawing inspiration from cities renowned for their timeless beauty and urban planning. I have a deep appreciation for what I call “healthy urban design” — walkable communities, mixed-use buildings, and public spaces that encourage human connection. These principles, inspired by Europe’s enduring design ethos, are at the core of my work. I co-founded my architecture firm, Vagabond ARQ, with my business partner, Natalia Cebollero, in Miami. Together, we’ve built a practice that combines our shared passion for thoughtful design with a deep understanding of the communities we serve. Vagabond ARQ is rooted in the belief that architecture can honor history while embracing innovation.
I hold a Master’s degree in Real Estate Development and Urbanism from the University of Miami, which has significantly shaped my approach to architecture. My academic foundation, coupled with years of experience working alongside a prominent Miami developer, gives me a unique perspective. I see projects not only through the lens of design but also from a feasibility and economic standpoint. This allows me to create solutions that are not only aesthetically compelling but also financially sound, bridging the gap between creativity and practicality.
At Vagabond ARQ, our services range from comprehensive architectural design and space planning to consulting on sustainable building practices and integrating modern systems into older structures. A defining characteristic of our work is the commitment to balancing innovation with preservation. Every project tells a story, and our role is to bring that narrative to life while solving our clients’ unique challenges—whether it’s maximizing the potential of a small space, revitalizing a historic structure, or designing new developments that align with a community’s vision.
What sets our firm apart is our multidisciplinary approach. In addition to architecture, we bring backgrounds in art, urbanism, and design to our projects, allowing us to create spaces that are both functional and inspiring. Whether we’re designing a boutique hotel, a restaurant, or a multi-family residence, we strive to craft environments that resonate deeply with people.
I am most proud of the impact our work has on communities. One of my favorite projects involved transforming a derelict building into a vibrant co-working and retail space that became a hub for local entrepreneurs. Witnessing how design can drive economic growth and foster a sense of belonging is incredibly fulfilling.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that Vagabond ARQ is a brand built on authenticity, creativity, and purpose. Every project reflects a commitment to excellence and a belief that architecture has the power to inspire, connect, and transform. Whether you’re looking to preserve history, bring a fresh vision to life, or collaborate on something entirely unique, we are here to make your vision a reality with thoughtful, timeless design.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Building a reputation in the architectural market is a process that requires dedication, consistency, and a deep commitment to quality. For me, the foundation of my reputation has always been simple: letting the work speak for itself. Every project I undertake is approached with the same level of care, creativity, and attention to detail, regardless of its size or complexity. I believe that when you consistently deliver thoughtful, high-quality designs that meet and exceed expectations, your work naturally becomes your strongest advocate. My career path also played a significant role in shaping my reputation. Before co-founding Vagabond ARQ, I had the privilege of working at several distinguished architectural firms and later with a developer in-house for many years. This gave me the unique opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects, from commercial developments to adaptive reuse and residential spaces. These experiences allowed me to build a robust portfolio that showcases my versatility as a designer and my ability to adapt to different challenges and contexts.
Working closely with a developer also gave me a rare perspective on the economic and feasibility aspects of projects. Understanding the financial realities behind what I design has enabled me to create solutions that are not only visually stunning but also practical and market-savvy. This has been particularly valuable in earning the trust of clients who appreciate my ability to align design excellence with real-world constraints.
Ultimately, I believe that my reputation has been built on a combination of factors: the diversity and quality of my work, the relationships I’ve cultivated with clients and collaborators, and my commitment to delivering projects that stand the test of time. Architecture is as much about people as it is about buildings, and I’ve always prioritized listening to my clients, understanding their needs, and delivering designs that truly reflect their vision.
At the end of the day, I am proud to say that my reputation is grounded in trust, consistency, and a passion for creating spaces that inspire and endure.

We’d love to hear about how you met your business partner.

The story of how I met my co-founder and business partner, Natalia Cebollero, is one of those serendipitous moments where everything just aligned perfectly. Natalia and I both completed the same Master’s program in Real Estate Development and Urbanism at the University of Miami, but our paths truly crossed while working with a local developer in Miami, Avra Jain. During our time working on projects together, we quickly realized we shared not only a passion for architecture but also a similar design philosophy and work ethic. We complemented each other’s strengths and had a natural synergy in how we approached challenges and problem-solving. It wasn’t long before we became fast friends, often staying after hours to brainstorm ideas and refine designs.
One of the pivotal moments in our journey was studying together for our Architecture exams. It was an intense, demanding time, but having each other as a support system made all the difference. We pushed one another to stay focused and celebrated every milestone along the way. Those early morning study sessions and shared victories deepened our bond and planted the seeds for what would eventually become Vagabond ARQ.
When the opportunity arose to start our own practice, it felt like a natural progression of our partnership. We both had a vision of creating a firm that merged thoughtful design with practical solutions and reflected our shared love for Miami’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Looking back, I feel incredibly fortunate that our paths crossed the way they did. Natalia is not just a brilliant architect but also an incredible partner, and together, we’ve built something we’re both immensely proud of.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://vagabondarq.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vagabondarchitecture/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/vagabond-architecture-808204292