Victoria Thompson

Project Designer- Architecture

Phone: (716) 646-8251
Email: victoria@havenarchitecture.com 

Years of Experience:

2- Haven Architecture : 2- Total

 

About Victoria

I am a Western New York native and have lived throughout the region, experiencing urban, suburban, and rural communities alike. Having seen firsthand what makes each setting unique has shaped the way I approach residential design and the importance of creating spaces that
truly reflect how people live.

My interest in architecture began in elementary school. Unsatisfied with my Barbie Dreamhouse, I started drawing floor plans on graph paper—unbeknownst to me at the time—and used them instead. After covering the living room floor with sketches, my parents suggested I become an architect one day. More than twenty years later, I’m proud to be fulfilling that early prediction.

I am a proud alum of the University at Buffalo, where I earned both my Bachelor of Science in Architecture, with a minor in Sociology, and my Master of Architecture. While many of my peers chose design-focused minors, I pursued sociology because I believe architecture is deeply connected to human behavior. Understanding how people move through and experience spaces continues to inform my work today and has guided my professional development as I work
toward architectural licensure.

I first connected with Haven Architecture while searching for a college internship. Learning that the firm focuses primarily on residential design immediately resonated with me—it brought me back to my elementary school self sketching out paper dollhouses. Today, I’m grateful to contribute to a team that values thoughtful, client-centered design and the creation of spaces that truly feel like home.

Professional Education & Experience

Education

Master of Architecture- University at Buffalo, 2024

Bachelor of Science Architecture- University at Buffalo, 2022

2023- Current

Project Designer- Architecture

Haven Architecture

  • Developed architectural designs from early concepts through detailed drawings.
  • Prepared construction documents with emphasis on accuracy, constructability, and clarity.
  • Coordinated with consultants, permitting agencies, and internal teams to support smooth project progression.
  • Produced 3D models, diagrams, and visualization materials for client presentations.
  • Assisted with material research, product specifications, and technical detailing.

The Proust Questionaire

Taking inspiration from a popular nineteenth-century parlor game, we sat down with each member of our team and asked them questions about themselves and  their inspirations.

Describe your education journey

UB Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Minor in Sociology, August 2019-December 2022
UB Master of Architecture, January 2023-July 2024

Describe your experience journey

Haven Architecture November 2023- Present

Favorite Project you have worked on?

An odd little project in Angola- thinking outside the box and delivering a still in-budget design. (hopefully)

One Sentence or word that captures your design philosophy or approach?

Functional

What inspires your work? (People, places, things, experiences etc)

People. Not designing just for the present, but also the future.

Why did you choose this field?

I created my own dolls house as a child, and wanted to do the same as an adult.

Describe your design style in 3 words

Practical, personalized, intentional

What would be your dream project(s)? (real or imaginary)

A Buffalo Bills player’s home

If your life had a soundtrack to it, what song would it be, or what artist?

“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper

What is your favorite building of all time?

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Falling Water

Go to a stress snack?

Cheez-its (and apple juice)

What is something that sparks your creativity?

Walking my dog through the neighborhood

What do you do when you are not working? (which should be 90% of the time because we don't promote workaholics)

Playing with my dog Rocky, playing board games with my boyfriend, watching Bills games, crafting

What's a fun fact people wouldn't expect about you?

I’m planning on buying and renovating my childhood home

What is something you always have to have in your workspace?

Multiple colored pens

Favorite spot in town?

Taste Bistro / MuseJar

How do you bring your touch into your work?

Thinking about how people actually inhabit and function in a space. Like playing with dolls in real life.

What is your most unconventional source of inspiration?

Riding in the passenger seat / noticing things I haven’t before

Anything else you feel inspired to add?

I Love working at Haven