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Architect-US

One month in, and Los Angeles is already reshaping me

It’s been just over a month since I moved from Toronto, Canada, to Los Angeles, and already this city is reshaping me in ways I never imagined. Starting over for the second time in a new country has been both a return to something familiar and a leap into something entirely unknown.

Los Angeles has a rhythm that is bold yet grounding. The energy here moves fast, but there’s also space to breathe, to explore, and to create. As I walk its streets, I’ve been surprised by how naturally I’ve connected with the city—its people, its atmosphere, its contrast between movement and calm. It’s as if some parts of me already knew I belonged here, even though I’m just beginning to scratch the surface.

The Challenge of Finding a Home 🏡

One of the most complex parts of this transition has been the search for a place to live. Unlike my previous migration to Toronto, this time I’m not alone—I have my family with me, and that adds another layer of responsibility. I’ve explored neighborhoods with a different lens: not just as an individual, but as a mother, a partner, and a professional.

Balancing proximity to good schools, access to nature, community safety, and overall cost has been a test of flexibility and vision. I’ve come to realize that finding a house is just one piece of the puzzle—what I’m really searching for is a new definition of home. A space that feels emotionally safe, culturally welcoming, and aligned with our values. And that takes time.

What Los Angeles Is Teaching Me ✨

This city is already teaching me more than I expected. It’s showing me that growth doesn’t happen in certainty—it happens in movement. It happens when we make decisions with incomplete information but full hearts. It happens when we allow ourselves to feel lost, knowing we’ll eventually find our rhythm again.

As a professional working in the engineering and architecture world—currently collaborating with SENER—I’ve been navigating new codes, new project dynamics, and new cultural expectations. But what hasn’t changed is my commitment to creating spaces that support emotional well-being and human connection. Los Angeles, with its diversity and intensity, is the perfect backdrop to continue merging technical precision with purposeful design.

I’ve also found that adaptation isn’t about fitting in quickly—it’s about allowing yourself to evolve slowly. To be shaped by your surroundings without losing your core. To stay resilient while welcoming the unfamiliar.

Are You Going Through a Big Change Too?

Maybe you’ve also moved to a new city. Maybe you’ve started a new job, ended a relationship, or decided to finally prioritize your dreams. Whatever your transition looks like, I want to remind you: you’re not alone. Change is never easy, but it’s always worth exploring.

I’d love to hear from you—how are you navigating your transformation? Let’s connect in the comments and support each other through the process.

 

Diana Flores Viteri

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