March 2025: Newly Licensed Architect
AIA Cincinnati congratulates member Manuel Granja who recently passed his ARE exams to become a licensed architect, moving from Associate AIA to full AIA! Kudos for your hard work and impressive accomplishments!
Manuel Granja AIA, MBA, LEED GA, PMP
AIA Ohio’s National Associate Council (NAC) Representative
Fitness Architecture
Manuel specializes in fitness architecture, creating innovative spaces that promote physical activity and wellness. His expertise lies in designing commercial fitness facilities that optimize both human performance and environmental sustainability. He was born in Ecuador and received a scholarship from Tecnologico de Monterrey to study architecture in Mexico. He also holds an MBA from Universidad Interamericana de Panama, which has contributed to his career in commercial fitness facilities. His experience includes working for Life Fitness Panama and PSA in Cincinnati, where he has helped conceptualize over 500,000 square feet across more than 100 fitness projects in the United States, South America, and Central America.
In 2023, Manuel joined AIA and became co-chair of the Urban Design Committee, advocating for improved human mobility. In 2024, he was elected National Associate Council Representative for AIA Ohio, where he now has the opportunity to advocate for health and physical activity in architecture spaces at a state and national level.
After passing the AREs in 2025, Manuel obtained architectural licenses in Ohio and Florida and joined Sol Design + Consulting. At Sol Design, he assists with sustainable project certifications that include credits for human health and mobility. Manuel is pursuing a WELL AP Certification and is a member of the International Association of Sports and Leisure Facilities.
In his free time, Manuel plays soccer tournaments and trains for running races and open water swimming competitions.
Degrees and Certifications
2025 Member of International Association of Sports and Leisure Facilities
2025 Architect - License in Florida and Ohio
2025 AIA Nacional Associate Representative of Ohio
2023 Co-Chair Urban Design Committee - AIA Cincinnati
2022 PMP - Project Management Institute
2022 Leed Green Associate - U.S. Green Building Council
2021 Architect - License in Panama
2019 MBA - Universidad Interamericana de Panamá
2013 Bachelor In Architecture - Instituto Tecnologico de Monterrey
