Katherine Serrano-Sosa, Architect NY/NJ
Katherine A. Serrano Sosa is a licensed architect in New York and New Jersey, originally hailing from El Salvador. Having moved to the U.S. at the age of seven, Katherine has beautifully balanced her Salvadoran heritage with her New York roots. A 2016 graduate of the Spitzer School of Architecture at the Macaulay Honors College at CCNY, Katherine became licensed in New York in 2019. With over nine years of experience, she has worked on a diverse range of projects across various scales and phases. Katherine is not only an architect but also an author, contributing her story to Latinas in Architecture and Allies Vol. II.
In July 2021, Katherine founded Rooted Architecture Studio, a firm dedicated to crafting meaningful and inclusive design solutions for a wide array of clients, including homeowners, healthcare providers, and small business owners. Rooted Architecture Studio prioritizes creating healing architecture that promotes health and wellness, integrating environmentally conscious practices to harmonize spaces with nature. The bilingual firm operates across Long Island, the five boroughs, and select locations in New Jersey, Westchester, and upstate New York.
Beyond her architectural work, Katherine is passionate about educating the public on the role and value of architects in society. She shares this knowledge through social media, blogs, courses, and booklets, and offers merchandise that celebrates design, architecture, and cultural pride. Her work can be explored further at rootedarchitecturestudio.com.
Katherine is deeply involved in her community, serving as a mentor with Arquitina, a non-profit group supporting Latina architects, and holding leadership roles in the AIA Long Island's Women in Architecture Committee and the Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce. She is also an active member of the Latina Business Network of New York (LABNNY), where she appreciates the opportunity to connect with inspiring and supportive women.
The journey of starting her own company and improving her mental health are among Katherine’s proudest achievements. She has learned to overcome people-pleasing tendencies and perfectionism, understanding the importance of self-care and the value of trial and error over inaction. This year, Katherine celebrated the third anniversary of her company and proudly sponsored her first scholarship.
Katherine avoids burnout by maintaining a solid morning routine, being self-aware of her energy levels, and learning to pivot when needed. Her favorite tools include her CRM for automating tasks and her Outlook calendar for keeping both her business and personal life organized.
Excited about the future, Katherine looks forward to participating in LABNNY events, eager to share her story and knowledge with the community.