Jainika Shah, an architectural designer and advocate based in San Diego. She is shaping the future of architecture through innovation, sustainable design, and inclusive leadership.
With a diverse professional background spanning across India and the United States. Jainika’s designs focus on wellbeing, sustainability, and technological innovation. Her cross-disciplinary practice merges sustainability and design, exploring alternate materials and community-centered design.
One of her most celebrated projects, “Spiritual Spa,” has received international recognition for transforming architectural space into a restorative and sensory experience. Thinking beyond conventional architecture, this design integrates natural light and local materials to craft an immersive environment centered on healing and mindfulness. Drawing inspiration from ancient wellness rituals and modern sustainability principles, the Spiritual Spa invites users into a dynamic space that adapts to human presence and natural rhythms, fostering deep sensory connection and restoration. This innovative project was honored with various international accolades
In addition to this, her conceptual work “Mycelium Maison” reflects a forward-thinking approach to sustainable architecture. Using Mycelium, a biodegradable building material, this project reflects her ongoing commitment to environmentally responsible material systems and her innovative design thinking.
Beyond her design work, Jainika is a strong advocate for equity and mentorship in architecture. She is involved with the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) Equity and Future of Architecture Committee (EQFA) and the AIA Women’s Leadership Summit (WLS) Advisory Committee. In these roles, she helps promote inclusive practices, ethical leadership, and fair representation in the field. She also mentors emerging talent through Women in BIM, a global platform that supports women in digital construction and building information modeling. Through mentorship, she empowers diverse professionals to navigate and lead in the changing architectural landscape.
Jainika’s designs and public service are deeply connected. Her projects prioritize social impact, wellness, and community engagement, while her leadership and mentorship reflect a broader commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient architecture community. Whether through material innovation, digital experimentation, or equity advocacy, she represents a new generation of designers dedicated to creating a more inclusive and resilient built environment.
