Born and raised in Mexico City, Irma Ayala studied architecture at the National University of Mexico. She graduated to work with architecture firms across Mexico City, before moving to Chicago in 2006 to continue her passion of creating substantive designs in architecture.  

In her more than 13 years of domestic and international architecture experience, Irma has worked on projects at all phases and of all types, ranging from new construction to renovation to interior design.  Since joining Canopy in 2021, Irma currently is spearheading the Albany Terrance and McCoy Gaines senior affordable housing high rises, as well as the Latinos Progresando’s New Headquarters and Community Center.  

Irma enjoys learning about people’s varying backgrounds, and working on meaningful projects that help improve the everyday lives of people. Outside of the office, Irma loves watching movies, trying new restaurants, visiting showrooms, and attending concerts, each of which allows her to enhance her creativity and effectively express herself in both her professional and personal life.