Mariah Klüsener Pinheiro

With over 15 years of professional experience in institutional, educational, and corporate architecture, I have dedicated my career to leading strategic initiatives that transform spaces and enhance human experiences. I currently serve as an Architect and Project Coordinator at PUCRS, where I have led high-impact projects such as the Brain Institute – Phase II, Living 360°, Culture Street, and CITA. I am also responsible for the PUCRS 2050 Master Plan and the campus wayfinding project, overseeing all stages of design and implementation while integrating aesthetics, functionality, sustainability, and wellbeing into architectural solutions.

In parallel, I work as a guest lecturer in the MBA in Neuroarchitecture and Design for Human Well-Being at NEUROARQ Academy, teaching the course on Architecture of Educational Environments. In this role, I apply scientific evidence and user-centered design strategies to create healthier, more innovative, and effective learning environments. I have also completed in MArch of this year, a High-Level Training Course in Architecture for Education at YACademy in Bologna, further strengthening my expertise in this field.

I am deeply passionate about neuroscience applied to architecture as a tool for fostering belonging and meaningful connections with space. My purpose is to design environments that promote positive and welcoming experiences, encourage interaction, and strengthen a sense of place. I believe that, in educational, institutional, and corporate contexts, design has the power to positively influence behavior, health, performance, and everyday relationships.

Within this field, I participated in the ANFA Conference in 2018 and presented a poster on the Living 360° project in 2020. I also took part in the Moving Boundaries program in 2024 in Scandinavia and again in 2025 in the online format—both experiences provided valuable insights and meaningful professional connections.