While the architectural and engineering world coursed through her family’s veins – with her father as a civil engineer and her brother an architect – Gabriela Narvaez’s journey into the dynamic realm of construction and high-end renovation was anything but conventional. Her path, marked by international diplomacy and academic finance, ultimately led her back to a deeply ingrained family passion: building and transforming spaces.

Originally from Nicaragua, Gabriela first ventured to Virginia to pursue business school. This initial step launched her into an unexpected career in the Nicaraguan Foreign Service, a role that saw her stationed at an embassy in the bustling heart of Washington, D.C. After dedicating five years to diplomacy, her compassionate spirit guided her to a nonprofit organization, where she served as events director, focusing on initiatives to aid impoverished children in her home country. Following this impactful period, she spent a decade navigating the intricate world of finance within Georgetown University’s prestigious departments, honing her organizational and strategic skills.

“Construction isn’t just a career; it’s truly something that runs in our family’s blood,” Narvaez reflects, a warmth in her voice. “I recall always living amidst a construction zone. As a child, after school, I’d eagerly don my miniature hardhat and accompany my dad to various job sites, observing the transformation firsthand. Those early experiences planted a seed that would eventually blossom.”

Today, Gabriela stands as the proud owner and driving force behind Guild Properties, a distinguished high-end real estate development and construction firm based in Washington, D.C. Her innovative approach to design and build is beautifully showcased on her Instagram @GuildProperties, where she inspires a growing community. Furthermore, she extends her expertise and guidance to enthusiastic DIYers through her consulting work with Matriarchy Build, fostering a spirit of empowerment in home improvement.

We recently had the privilege of sitting down with Gabriela Narvaez, a true luminary in her field, to glean her invaluable insights on the current landscape and future trajectory of the construction and renovation industry, particularly from the unique perspective of a woman at the helm.

From Diplomacy to Design: Gabriela’s Path to General Contracting

Q: How did you make the significant leap from the nonprofit sector and finance into becoming a successful general contractor?

A: My husband and I embarked on the exciting journey of purchasing our first home, a charming townhome, in 2008. This decision was spurred by the wonderful news that we were expecting our second child. The property, while full of potential, was in dire need of extensive renovations, and like many first-time homeowners, our budget was quite limited. In search of guidance, I reached out to my father and brother, who generously offered to walk me through the entire renovation process.

The experience, though undeniably chaotic – during this period, we welcomed a third baby into our family, adopted a dog, and even had to set up a makeshift kitchen in our basement – was incredibly invigorating. I found myself absolutely loving every moment of it, from the problem-solving to the tangible results. This initial foray sparked an undeniable passion. Soon after, I began renovating homes for friends and quickly transitioned into flipping houses, further honing my skills and understanding of the market.

Then, when the pandemic unexpectedly hit, forcing us all to pause, reassess our lives, and grapple with a sense of global uncertainty, I experienced a profound realization. I felt a distinct void, a powerful sense that I wasn’t fully pursuing something I was deeply passionate about. This period of introspection became the catalyst. I resolved to pursue my residential and commercial general contractors licenses. Through sheer determination and focused effort, by December of 2020, I proudly secured my very first legitimate client, marking the official launch of Guild Properties.

Preserving Character: Gabriela’s Niche in Sustainable Renovation

Q: What specific types of homes do you typically focus on in your renovation projects?

A: My specialization lies in older, often smaller, Colonial-style homes. I intentionally steer clear of new builds or large-scale additions, operating under the strong belief that we possess the capability to adapt and optimize existing houses to perfectly suit our contemporary needs and lifestyles. There’s an inherent beauty and history in these structures that I’m committed to honoring.

I genuinely don’t see the necessity in adding thousands of square feet to a property. Instead, my passion lies in the transformative process of converting these historical spaces into modern, aesthetically pleasing, and highly functional environments. The core of my approach is to sustainably preserve their original character while infusing them with a unique, bespoke design that reflects the homeowner’s personality. This creates a harmonious blend of past and present.

Furthermore, an integral part of our ethos at Guild Properties involves conscientiously reusing as many materials as possible. We recognize that conventional construction practices often carry a significant environmental footprint, and we are committed to mitigating that impact. I’ll be candid: working within the constraints of existing spaces and salvaged materials can sometimes present more intricate challenges than simply erecting a brand new structure. There’s almost always an unforeseen surprise lurking behind a wall or under a floorboard. However, it’s precisely these complexities and the thrill of creative problem-solving that I absolutely adore about my work.

Navigating the Industry: Challenges and Triumphs for a Woman Contractor

Q: Have you encountered any particular challenges or unique experiences as a woman working as a general contractor in a traditionally male-dominated field?

A: It’s an interesting dynamic, and yes, sometimes I find that prospective clients approach me with requests or expectations that I suspect they might not necessarily pose to a male contractor. For instance, I’ve had potential clients inquire about discounts or try to negotiate my fees in ways that feel like they’re devaluing the extensive experience and specialized skill set I bring to the table. While I could be mistaken, there’s a lingering feeling that this kind of proposition might be less common if I were a man in the same position. When these situations arise, it feels as though my expertise is being underestimated, and I often wonder if a male counterpart would face the same subtle scrutiny.

However, I must emphasize that when it comes to my dedicated crews, I have been incredibly fortunate. My team members, composed mostly of men, have consistently shown me immense respect and professionalism. Their focus is unequivocally on the work at hand, and I genuinely don’t believe my gender plays any role in their performance or how they perceive my leadership. Interestingly, as my presence in the industry has grown, people have started asking me more frequently about what it’s like “always working with a bunch of dudes.” The truth is, it’s never been something I actively considered. I honestly never realized I was often the sole woman in the room until others started pointing it out and asking me about it. For me, it’s simply about getting the job done with a talented and respectful team.

Memorable Projects: Innovation, Accessibility, and Client Connections

Q: Among your many projects, which ones have truly stood out or offered unique learning experiences?

A: Towards the end of 2021, I undertook a significant and deeply rewarding project: remodeling an entire house for a client facing mobility challenges. This project required an entirely different approach to design and functionality. We had to meticulously consider every detail, from ensuring ample space for wheelchair maneuverability to implementing safety features like rounded wall corners to prevent injury. It was an incredibly interesting and impactful challenge that pushed our creative and problem-solving boundaries, ultimately delivering a home that truly enhanced the client’s quality of life. Another unique and rather charming project involved designing and constructing a custom “cat closet” – a discreet and aesthetically pleasing solution to cleverly hide litter boxes, blending pet needs seamlessly into the home’s design.

However, it’s genuinely difficult for me to pinpoint a single “favorite” job. This is largely because I inevitably develop very close, personal relationships with my clients throughout the renovation process. We are often guests in their homes every single day for months on end, immersing ourselves in their lives and visions. Consequently, when a project reaches completion, saying goodbye can be quite emotional. This is especially true when it comes to their beloved pets, as I am a huge animal lover. I confess, I almost always get a little teary-eyed when it’s time to move on.

Evolving Trends: Materials, Design Philosophy, and Personalization

Q: What significant changes have you observed within your trade over the past decade?

A: The world of construction materials is in a constant state of evolution, and over the last ten years, certain innovations have truly made an impact. One material that immediately springs to mind is LVP (luxury vinyl plank) flooring. A decade ago, LVP often had a noticeably artificial appearance, often resembling plastic attempting to mimic wood – and not always successfully. Fast forward to today, and the same manufacturers are producing some truly stunning LVP options that are incredibly realistic, durable, and won’t completely drain your budget. Of course, ideally, for areas like basements, we’d always recommend tiling due to its superior moisture resistance and longevity. However, tiling can be a costly endeavor, which is why many of our clients frequently opt for LVP as a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative that doesn’t compromise on aesthetics.

Beyond materials, there are, of course, ever-shifting trends in home design and construction. However, I must admit, I’m not a fervent follower of transient fads. My advice to all my clients is consistently the same: make your house a genuine reflection of who you are, your unique personality, and your family’s lifestyle. Honor your personal aesthetic and what truly resonates with you, because ultimately, you’re the one who will be living in and seeing that space every single day. In the grand scheme of things, who truly cares what Aunt Sally, your mom, or fleeting opinions on social media might think? Your home should be your sanctuary, authentically designed for you.

Empowering Future Builders: Advice for Young Women in Construction

Q: For young women considering a career in the construction or renovation field, what valuable advice would you offer?

A: My foremost piece of advice is this: If stepping into this industry is something that genuinely ignites your passion and fuels your drive, you absolutely will find a way to make it happen. The path might not always be clear, but your determination will guide you. It’s also crucial to understand and embrace that you will inevitably make mistakes along the way. Rather than viewing them as failures, consider them your most profound teachers. Each error provides an invaluable opportunity to re-evaluate your approach, refine your skills, and propel yourself forward with greater wisdom and resilience.

Prepare yourself for challenges, because the reality is that much of this work is not easy. While there’s about 10 percent of the job that feels shiny, glamorous, and absolutely awesome, the remaining 90 percent often requires grit, problem-solving, and perseverance. So, expect it to be hard, anticipate the hurdles, and despite all of that, still wholeheartedly pursue it. The rewards, both tangible and intangible, are truly awesome and deeply satisfying. There are countless gifts embedded within that challenging process of working towards and ultimately achieving your goals – gifts of personal growth, skill mastery, and the profound satisfaction of bringing visions to life.

Gabriela’s Essential Tools: Precision, Organization, and Quality Craftsmanship

Q: What are some of your indispensable, professional-specific tools that you rely on daily?

A: Without a doubt, a laser measure is my absolute favorite tool for achieving quick and accurate measurements. It significantly streamlines the initial assessment of spaces. However, I always, always keep a reliable regular measuring tape close at hand. This is because there are inevitably those tricky little nooks, crannies, and oddly shaped areas, especially in complex kitchen layouts where a laser simply can’t get a precise read. We often measure a million times in kitchens to ensure absolute perfection.

Beyond physical tools, my favorite “program” is undeniably Excel. I take immense pride in the meticulous way I manage my project numbers and financial data. This allows me to know the exact cost of each project at any given moment, eliminating any guesswork regarding the client’s expenditure. Transparency and financial clarity are paramount in my business.

I also have a genuine love for painting, and as such, I make a point to invest in high-quality paintbrushes. The difference a $10 brush makes compared to a $4 brush is truly remarkable, impacting both the smoothness of paint application and the final aesthetic on the wall. It’s an investment that pays off in the finish.

And I’m a firm believer in using a high-quality dedicated primer instead of simply relying on paint with primer built-in. Some people might argue that it’s an extra step, effectively doubling the work, but to each their own. In my experience, paint adheres better, looks richer, and lasts longer when the drywall has been properly and thoroughly primed beforehand. It’s a foundational step I never skip for superior results.

About Gabriela Narvaez: Licensed General Contractor, Designer, and Real Estate Developer

Gabriela Narvaez embarked on her journey from Nicaragua to Washington D.C. in 1999, where she achieved her business degree from Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia. During her time there, she developed a deep-seated passion and appreciation for the historic properties that define the region. This fascination, combined with her innate understanding of design and construction, ultimately led her to establish her esteemed company, Guild Properties.

As a fully licensed general contractor, a talented designer, and an innovative real estate developer, Narvaez is driven by a singular mission: to meticulously craft spaces where families can not only reside but truly live beautifully and joyfully. She finds particular satisfaction and expertise in transforming kitchens, refreshing bathrooms, and optimizing small-space renovations, demonstrating a keen eye for detail and functionality. Narvaez currently calls Arlington, Virginia, home, where she lives with her loving husband, their three children, and their cherished poodle-mix.

About the Writer: Karuna Eberl

Karuna Eberl is a valued and regular contributor to Family Handyman. With over 25 years of experience as a distinguished freelance journalist and filmmaker, Karuna has dedicated her career to crafting compelling narratives that explore people, nature, travel, science, and history. Her exceptional writing has earned her numerous accolades, including awards for her comprehensive Florida Keys Travel Guide and her impactful documentary, The Guerrero Project.