Isabella Ludena
Chief Design Officer
AIA, NCARB | Texas Registered Architect · License #33051
Isabella Ludena is the Chief Design Officer of MATIS Design & Construction, bringing a multidisciplinary design background that spans architecture, interiors, branding, digital design, animation, and modular systems. Her experience ranges across multiple scales and typologies—from experience-driven design studios in New York City specializing in animation, digital environments, branding, and modular design, to multifamily residential projects in Austin, Texas, and restaurant and bar interiors throughout Houston, where she has developed a strong specialization in interior architecture.
A licensed architect in the State of Texas and NCARB-certified professional, Isabella achieved architectural licensure at an exceptionally young age, completing the full licensure process in just six months, a milestone that typically takes professionals several years to achieve. This accomplishment reflects not only technical rigor, but a deep commitment to design excellence, discipline, and leadership.
Isabella earned her Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Houston, a NAAB-accredited program that enables direct licensure without the requirement of a master's degree. During her five years of study, she received multiple design awards and scholarships in recognition of her work. With over two years of professional experience and a practice informed by both conceptual rigor and built work, Isabella leads MATIS with a design philosophy grounded in craft, precision, clarity, and long-term value, and adaptability across scales.
Mateo Ludena
Chief Financial Officer
Mateo Ludena serves as Chief Financial Officer of MATIS Design & Construction, bringing a technology-driven, systems-oriented approach to financial strategy, operations, and organizational growth across design, construction, and technology-driven organizations nationwide with executive leadership. His background spans product management, business analysis, and entrepreneurship, with experience leading complex, high-scale platforms and data-driven initiatives.
In his current role, Mateo has been deeply involved in vendor management, contract structuring and negotiations, and legal entity management, overseeing the operational and financial frameworks that support long-term stability and scalability. He has managed large budgets, implemented automation strategies, and optimized cross-functional workflows that deliver measurable cost savings while maintaining compliance and accountability.
Complementing his financial leadership, Mateo has co-founded and led multiple technology ventures, guiding products from early concept through scalable production. This entrepreneurial foundation informs a pragmatic CFO mindset—balancing innovation with fiscal discipline, risk management, and operational clarity. At MATIS, Mateo oversees financial planning, vendor relationships, contractual strategy, and operational infrastructure, ensuring the firm's multidisciplinary design practice is supported by resilient systems that enable sustainable growth and execution at scale.
Jose Ludena
Chief Executive Officer
Jose Ludena serves as Chief Executive Officer of MATIS Design & Construction, bringing decades of experience in real estate development, construction management, and strategic business leadership. His vision guides the firm's multidisciplinary approach, integrating design excellence with operational efficiency and financial sustainability.
With a deep understanding of both the creative and business aspects of development, Jose has successfully led projects from conception through completion, establishing MATIS as a trusted name in residential and commercial development. His leadership emphasizes quality craftsmanship, innovative design solutions, and strong relationships with clients, partners, and the communities MATIS serves.
Jose's entrepreneurial background and hands-on approach ensure that every project reflects the firm's commitment to excellence, precision, and long-term value. Under his guidance, MATIS continues to expand its portfolio while maintaining the personalized attention and design integrity that define the firm's reputation.
Nora Benalcazar
Art Director
Nora Benalcazar serves as Art Director at MATIS Design & Construction, bringing a refined artistic vision and expertise in visual communication, branding, and creative direction. Her background in fine arts and design enables her to craft compelling visual narratives that elevate MATIS's brand identity and project presentations.
Nora's work spans multiple creative disciplines, from developing brand guidelines and marketing materials to curating project photography and overseeing visual content strategy. Her keen eye for composition, color, and storytelling ensures that MATIS's portfolio is presented with the same level of excellence and attention to detail that defines the firm's built work.
With a passion for bridging art and architecture, Nora collaborates closely with the design and leadership teams to create cohesive visual experiences that resonate with clients and audiences. Her creative leadership helps position MATIS at the intersection of design innovation and artistic expression.