Katia Diba, forties

Job: Architect. Education: BS in architecture from Lawrence Technical Institute in Michigan. Hometown: Born in Tehran, Iran, and raised in France and Belgium. Now lives in Bethesda. Favorite hangouts: I tend to steer clear of bar scenes. I like bookstores, small coffeehouses, art galleries, museums, and the scenic outdoors. Deal breakers: Smokers, addicts, cheaters, cheap tippers, selfish people, the dishonest, the close-minded, and know-it-alls. What do you hope for? A calm and quiet life with a kid or two. I also believe one should leave some room to chance and have faith that two loving and mature individuals would be able to shape their future together. Coolest thing you’ve ever done: I crashed a wedding reception with a bunch of girlfriends in Newport Beach. Proudest achievement: Having been involved in the design of a couple of large-scale castles in far east Asia. Last book you read: The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. Shortcomings: Although I love to meet people, I tend to be very shy at first. I have a soft spot for the underdog, and at times I’m too emotional for my own good. Would you ever go on a blind date? Only if I trust the source.