Damaris Melo-Gyasi (Jabiru)

In this episode of the Flying Solo Podcast, host Katie Kangas speaks with Damaris Melo-Gyasi, founder of Design by Melo. Her small architecture designs inclusive projects focused on long-term community impact. Damaris did not originally plan to become an entrepreneur. After working within multiple firms and striving to reach her full potential, she realized she was seeking deeper alignment—more inclusion, stronger recognition, and a practice that reflected her values. Rather than waiting for that opportunity, she chose to build it herself.Damaris describes her firm in three words: “Curious. Inclusive. Fun.”Those values shape every one of Design by Melo’s collaborations. They operate at the intersection of affordable housing, urban redevelopment, and revitalizing neighborhoods. These are not small or simple projects. They often navigate the challenge of change in established communities. Yet Damaris approaches each engagement with clarity and care, navigating politically charged discussions while keeping the focus on shared community goals and thoughtful development.Damaris’ bird archetype is the Jabiru — one of the largest flying birds in the Americas. With its distinctive silhouette and commanding presence, the Jabiru represents visible leadership and adaptability. Like the Jabiru standing tall in the wetlands, Damaris does not shrink her vision to fit into a smaller role. As a small firm, she leads her team through large, complex, and long-term projects. She demonstrates that small does not mean little.Throughout the conversation, Damaris shares how entrepreneurship allowed her to fully live out her calling, how aligning with mission-driven clients strengthens both culture and impact, and why sustainability is not only environmental, but relational. Her story offers a reminder that architects can shape inclusive urban environments by standing tall, owning their voice, and adapting their practice to serve communities wherever the work is needed.Website: Design by MeloLinkedIn: Design by Melo LLCSeason 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group.Mentioned in this episode:DATM