Reem Makkawi is a designer at Rafael Viñoly Architects in New York City, with a diverse background in prefabrication, material science, and teaching. Reem's experience spans from the nuts-and-bolts of construction to spearheading entrepreneurial and philanthropic initiatives. Her work bridges technical expertise with research in sustainable materials, virtual and artificial technology, art, and social justice. 

As a design critic, Reem contributes to academic discussions at institutions such as Pratt SOA, Columbia GSAPP, UC Berkeley, and the California College of the Arts. She is also deeply involved in mentorship and advocacy, as a mentor with the Architectural League NY and Education for Employment, on the Catalyst Committee at International Interior Design Association NY Chapter, and as collaborator with Guinea-based social enterprise Kaloum Bankhi building in Conakry. Reem earned a Master of Architecture from Columbia University and a B.A. in Architecture from UC Berkeley.