Inspirational Stories #7: Daniela Sánchez (archezinternational)

We’re going on with the next article of the Inspirational Stories series. In this article, we are excited to feature Daniela Sánchez, the illustrator and creative mind behind archezinternational. Daniela is a successful architectural illustrator who is passionate about simplicity, greenery, and the warmth of spaces.

Her journey began during her university years, when she discovered the world of architectural illustration and immediately felt drawn to its fresh, aesthetic, and inspiring approach. What started as curiosity soon grew into a lifelong passion. Seven years later, Daniela is teaching, sharing, and giving more visibility to this unique technique, turning it into a powerful way of storytelling in architecture. If you’re not already following @archezinternational, her work is a wonderful source of inspiration for both students and professionals alike. Let’s get to know her following the article, she has shared her story and creative journey!

How would you describe yourself as an architectural illustrator? How can you explain your journey?

I describe myself as an architectural illustrator passionate about simplicity, greenery, and the warmth of spaces. I enjoy transforming ideas into visuals that inspire. My journey began in university, where I loved spending hours on Pinterest and discovered a type of visualization I had never seen before: architectural illustration. It felt completely different, fresh, aesthetic, and inspiring to me. From that moment, I knew I wanted to learn everything about illustration and dedicate myself to it. And here I am, seven years later, teaching, sharing, and bringing more visibility to this powerful and unique technique. Since then, I’ve been committed to continuous learning and enjoying every day working in what I consider my dream job.

Can you walk us through your illustration process, from idea to final piece?

My process starts with understanding the concept and atmosphere I want to convey, whether it’s a realistic vision of a project or a conceptual sketch for inspiration. I usually begin with 2D plans and then move into digital illustration tools like Photoshop, which is where my favorite part begins: illustrating. At this stage, I give each plan a unique character and emotional depth through thoughtful use of color, elements, textures, and vegetation, creating a composition that truly connects with the viewer.

What inspired you to start sharing your illustrations online?

I wanted to create a space dedicated exclusively to architectural illustration because, at the time, there were very few platforms showcasing this technique. I wanted a space where illustration took center stage and felt approachable and inspiring for everyone. At first, sharing online was a bit intimidating, but I took the leap, showing my projects, documenting my processes, and sharing my experiments. It quickly grew into a community of architects, students, and creatives eager to learn new ways to visualize their ideas. Seeing how the techniques I’ve developed help other architects has been my biggest motivation to keep sharing.

What aspects of architecture do you most want to highlight or make more visible through your work?

I love highlighting the emotional side of architecture, how a space feels and the story it tells, by using techniques and elements that guide the viewer through a clear visual narrative. As architectural illustrators, we have the ability to craft that story according to each project’s purpose. I also enjoy exploring how natural elements, greenery, and materials influence the experience of a space. Through illustration, I aim to showcase those unique qualities that often get lost in technical drawings or renders.

Who inspires your work? Do you have a favorite type of architecture to illustrate?

I’m inspired by architects who prioritize simplicity and human connection in their work, like Tadao Ando. I especially enjoy illustrating minimalistic spaces and architecture that is deeply connected to nature.

Do you follow AI and other emerging technologies? How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends?

Yes, I actively use AI tools and closely follow their rapid evolution, especially in the field of architectural visualization. I stay updated by researching, exploring new tools, and sharing my insights with my online community. I believe AI and other emerging technologies open up an infinite field of creative opportunities we could never have imagined before. Using them to our advantage has helped us open our eyes and see beyond what we normally would. Plus, they amplify our talent, I always say that thanks to AI, we’re now “superhumans.”

Daniela Sánchez’s story is a true example of how passion and persistence can transform a simple curiosity into a lifelong creative path. From her first encounter with architectural illustration during university to her years of teaching and sharing knowledge, she has shown how illustration can be much more than a technique, it can be a language of storytelling, emotion, and connection. By highlighting simplicity, greenery, and the warmth of spaces, Daniela continues to inspire architects, students, and creatives to see design through a more human and poetic lens. Her journey reminds us that when we follow what excites us, we not only shape our own dream careers but also open doors for others to learn, grow, and be inspired.