Stella Hernandez

Co-Chair, Industrial and Spatial Design

Biography

Stella Hernandez is Co-Chair of the Industrial and Spatial Experience Design Department at ArtCenter College of Design, where she has taught since 2014. Her work focuses on the intersection of spatial design, materials innovation, sustainability, and social impact. Over the past decade, she has taught a wide range of courses across the department and, through Designmatters collaborations, has led and developed award-winning projects that address environmental and community challenges. Her “Safe Agua” water system for communities in Latin America is part of the permanent collection of the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum.

Originally trained as an Industrial Designer in Colombia, Stella later graduated with honors from ArtCenter College of Design with a degree in Environmental Design. Her professional experience spans interior architecture, furniture, lighting, and branded environments, working with design firms and clients across the United States and Latin America.

In recent years, Stella has developed courses and interdisciplinary studios focused on materials innovation, sustainability, and emerging design practices while supporting academic initiatives across the department. Through both teaching and practice, she is committed to advancing design as a tool for positive social and environmental impact.