At Felix Magazine, we celebrate people who champion change and bring inspiration to their work. Alicia Ponce, the founder of APMonarch, is one such individual. As an architect, sustainability advocate, and author, Alicia’s focus on eco-conscious design reflects her belief that architecture should enhance our environment while fostering social equity. Her journey from the neighborhoods of southwest Chicago to becoming one of the few Latina architects leading sustainable urban development is a testament to her dedication and vision. Alicia’s passion for design took root at a young age, sparked by her family’s trips between her suburban neighborhood just southwest of Chicago and Mexico’s open, natural landscapes. These contrasting environments—Chicago’s structured cityscapes and the natural beauty of Mexico—helped her understand how spaces shape lives and how architecture could bridge nature with human-made spaces. She saw early on that buildings do more than house people; they have the power to uplift or disrupt communities.
When Alicia launched APMonarch in 2007, she aimed to redefine what it means to build sustainably. For her, architecture’s environmental impact is critical—she views architects as stewards of the planet, responsible for designing spaces that honor natural resources. “Buildings are major contributors to carbon emissions,” she explains. “As architects, we have a unique responsibility to reduce that impact.” With APMonarch, Alicia has focused on creating buildings that use minimal energy, reduce waste, and co-exist harmoniously with their surroundings. Her vision isn’t just about constructing eco-friendly spaces but about shifting the industry’s approach to design.
Environmental justice is central to Alicia’s philosophy. Her projects often focus on communities that have been disproportionately affected by environmental challenges, such as the South and Southwest sides of Chicago, where industrial pollution has led to long-standing air quality issues. Alicia’s work in these neighborhoods reflects her belief that sustainable design should be accessible to all communities, not only those with the means to prioritize it. Her goal is to create spaces that contribute to cleaner air, walkable neighborhoods, and green landscapes, bringing the same environmental benefits seen in more affluent areas to historically underserved communities.
One of Alicia’s most celebrated accomplishments is the Keller Center at the University of Chicago, a project that achieved the highest level of LEED certification and met the rigorous standards of the Living Building Challenge. This project was more than a professional milestone; it demonstrated that sustainable architecture could be achieved at the highest levels and with significant impact. “It was a proud moment,” she reflects. “It showed that green architecture is not just a concept but something that makes a measurable difference.” This project, along with other high-certification buildings she’s designed and consulted for, underscores her belief in architecture as a tool for positive environmental change.
Beyond her achievements in the U.S., Alicia’s work has taken her to international projects where she’s been able to apply her knowledge in unique ways. In Aguascalientes, Mexico, she implemented a building technique called rammed earth, where walls are constructed using local soil. This method requires minimal energy and connects the building to the natural environment, blending low-cost, eco-friendly materials with traditional techniques. What makes the project particularly meaningful is the involvement of local youth, who will help build the iconic structure. Alicia’s approach is always to adapt her work to local climates, cultures, and resources, ensuring that her designs respect the communities they serve.
In addition to her work as an architect, Alicia is an author and advocate for women of color in architecture, a field where they remain significantly underrepresented. Her contributions to Today’s Inspired Latina and Latinas in Architecture Volumes I and II reflect her commitment to supporting other women pursuing careers in design. Alicia recalls the lack of diversity she encountered while earning her license, a realization that fueled her determination to change the industry. “When I became licensed, I saw how few women of color were in this field,” she says. Today, less than one percent of U.S. architects are women of color. Through her writing and public speaking, Alicia encourages others to break into this male-dominated industry, showing them that success is possible.
Alicia also champions pay equity, a critical issue for women of color in the field. Latinas, for instance, earn only 54 cents for every dollar earned by white men. This disparity limits career growth, financial security, and the ability to reinvest in one’s community. For Alicia, fair compensation and access to resources are essential to creating an inclusive industry where diverse voices are valued and rewarded for their contributions. She believes that diversifying the architecture profession will lead to a richer field and designs that better serve all communities.
Balancing the demands of a career in architecture with the social impact she hopes to achieve isn’t easy, and Alicia admits that juggling work and family is challenging. She acknowledges there is no “perfect balance” and that some days feel more balanced than others. For Alicia, it’s essential to prioritize and practice self-compassion, accepting that perfection isn’t the goal but remaining present in both her professional and personal life is.
Looking ahead, Alicia has several projects underway that demonstrate her commitment to community and sustainable design. She’s currently working on retail spaces in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood, which will offer local entrepreneurs affordable, eco-friendly storefronts. Another project with the nonprofit Growing Home in Englewood focuses on urban agriculture and workforce development, creating spaces that empower residents and provide valuable resources. These projects reflect her belief that architecture should be more than functional; it should serve as a catalyst for community growth and resilience.
For young women, especially Latinas, who aspire to make their mark in the world, Alicia offers a message of resilience and pride. “In our culture, we’re often taught to work hard but keep our heads down,” she says. “I say, work hard and hold your head high. Be proud of who you are and the value you bring.” She believes that every person’s unique experiences and perspectives are valuable, not only shaping their own future but the future of their industry.
Alicia Ponce’s story, from her roots in Chicago to her leadership in sustainable architecture, exemplifies the power of purpose and determination. Her work at APMonarch is a testament to the transformative potential of architecture to drive social change, promote environmental responsibility, and inspire future leaders. At Felix Magazine, we are proud to share her story—a story that reminds us that each of us has the power to build a better, more sustainable world.
As we continue to highlight voices making an impact, Alicia’s journey stands as a powerful example of creating a lasting legacy. Her work, much like the buildings she designs, is built with integrity and purpose—meant to inspire, endure, and make a meaningful difference for generations to come.
Creative Credits
- Written by
- Marshelle R. Sanders
- Photography
- Meagan Shuptar
- Retouching
- Brianna Kish
- Hair & Makeup
- Mo Drennon of The LAB Artist Agency
