Student Portfolio Review

Join the Interior Architecture Committee for their student portfolio review.

This event is an opportunity for interior design and architecture students to learn from design professionals with a range of backgrounds, experiences, and career paths. The evening will begin with a panel discussion about life and career after design school, followed by a one-on-one portfolio review session where students can receive thoughtful feedback from professionals in the field. While not a career fair, the event is meant to offer encouragement, constructive input, and a chance to make meaningful connections.

Schedule
5:00 pm – Arrivals and setup
5:30 pm – Keynote/Panel
6:30 pm – Portfolio Reviews
7:30 pm – Wrap up
8:30 pm – Adjourn

Panelists and Reviewers

Megan Ebert, Moderator

Megan Ebert is the Director of Interiors at Kendall/Heaton Associates, where she leads a practice focused on programming, space planning, material and furniture selection, and construction documentation. With 24 years of experience across corporate, government, hospitality, manufacturing, and renovation projects, she is known for her collaborative approach, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills. She is also deeply committed to mentoring young professionals and supporting the next generation of designers.

Adam Cook, Panelist

Adam Cook is a Houston-native who graduated from the University of Houston with degrees in Architecture and Entrepreneurship. After school, Adam worked for Knoll; he was director of sales and marketing for six Roche Bobois stores, before opening Shop in 2018.

Shop represents design-forward furniture, lighting and rug brands for the Houston market.

Shop now has two showrooms (one more contract/commercial-focused, one more residential-focused) in the Decorative Center Houston.

Michael Zapeda, Panelist

Michael Zepeda is a Design Director and Associate Principal at PBK Architects, where he leads immersive experience design efforts for K-12 and civic clients. His work integrates technology, storytelling, and spatial design to create engaging, hands-on learning environments. Michael develops interactive exhibits, digital environments, and experiential spaces that help architecture become an active tool for discovery, exploration, and education.

Ileana Luna, Panelist

Ileana Luna is an interior designer at PBK Architects and a graduate of the University of Houston, where she earned a degree in Interior Architecture. She supports the design and development of K-12 interior environments, bringing creativity, attention to detail, and a thoughtful approach to spaces that are both functional and engaging. Her work reflects a strong interest in human-centered design and creating environments that positively impact the people who use them.

Arianne Gonzato, Panelist

Arianne is a dynamic Interior Designer with over 10 years of experience and a strong foundation in business strategy, financial management, and high-level design execution. She is a proven leader in design innovation and operations, blending artistic vision with business acumen to deliver transformative spaces across corporate, healthcare, retail, industrial, landlord and capital improvement projects.

Members of the AIA Houston Interior Architecture Committee will assist with one-on-one portfolio reivews.