By Escarlin Pozo
El Inmobiliario
SANTO DOMINGO. - Conversing with architect and interior designer Fernanda Muñoz is an enriching experience from beginning to end. In every word she speaks, both personally and professionally, one learns vital insights, even from those outside her field.
Two qualities stand out about her: she is a persevering and hardworking woman. In her daily life, she has learned to be committed to the people around her: her family, friends, colleagues, and clients.
Muñoz, who is the founder and CEO of EME Concepts, participated in the panel “Concrete Women: Architects of solid leadership” , held during the launch of the magazine “Concrete Woman”.
According to the expert, who has over 20 years of experience in the field, there are key ingredients that allow women within the industry to achieve success and connect with their customers.
First, he mentioned that a crucial aspect is "believing in yourself," leaving behind comparisons within the workplace and putting all your energy into fighting for your own ideals.
He also firmly believes that another vital component is working with honesty and perseverance.
Fernanda Muñoz. Fidel Pérez/El Inmobiliario.
“Creating, generating, and developing honest projects is the way to build strong relationships with your clients. Always be responsible, rigorous, and punctual. It’s the best way for them to believe in you and your reputation,” explained Fernanda, who specializes in hospitality projects.
While speaking, Muñoz addressed a topic few discuss: ego in the workplace. According to her, when this occurs, it not only affects individuals but also spills over and harms the entire project environment.
“Many projects fail to reach completion because of egos. Quality is directly related to how you approach a project. Either you approach it with your professional ego, or you approach it as a results-oriented professional,” he stated.
In that sense, he emphasized that self-confidence is a characteristic that is built over time, but that it does not depend solely on individual effort.
“Self-confidence is built. It takes daily work, but you need the support of a team that also trusts, not only you as a leader, but themselves. That's why it's essential to give them the tools and freedom to achieve it. Surrounding yourself with expert collaborators generates mutual trust. And that strengthens your own self-confidence,” he noted.
The role of women within the sector
Fernanda highlighted that, in the last decade, the female presence in the real estate and construction sector in Spain has grown significantly, occupying high-level positions and leading management teams within companies.
She advises young women venturing into architecture to excel in a transcendental quality, such as their great capacity for adaptation, in addition to working with effort and perseverance.
About EME Concepts
EME Concepts has established itself in the market, accumulating over 15 years of experience. The firm specializes in the development of medium- and large-scale boutique projects, distinguishing itself through its focus on the hospitality sector and its strong presence in the tourism industry.
Throughout his career, he has worked on projects in Cyprus, Dubai, Europe and the Caribbean.
In the country, in the Punta Cana area, the Secret Garden projects, in Los Corales, and in La Marina de Cap Cana, the Marina Garden and Marina Garden II projects, which have been developed by Gesproin Group.
Among his most outstanding works are also the Six Senses hotel in Ibiza, Spain; the Edition hotel in Barcelona and the Hard Rock Hotel in Budapest.
