Turbulent beginnings

CF: We have incredible cultural diversity here, and that's a big part of who we are. Despite our large population, we're not all focused on just one thing, like football. Instead, we're engaged in a myriad of activities, which I think is quite remarkable. This diversity is particularly enriching for architects and the new generation of students, who bring fresh perspectives. We're constantly learning from the work of our talented peers in architecture. Discussing political and economic issues is natural, but there's more to us than that. We're like swimmers battling the current; resilience and hard work are second nature to architects. Our creativity shines when we solve problems, not just in architecture but in everyday life, often with the simplest of tools. This ingenuity, I believe, is a cultural trait and a significant part of our identity. Looking back, my journey feels like a roller coaster. Growing up with both parents as architects, I was initially determined not to follow in their footsteps. Yet, deep down, I always knew architecture was my calling. It was like rediscovering a world that was already mine. As a student, I struggled. My career initially took me to Ireland and Barcelona, where I worked and lived, absorbing diverse architectural influences. Starting my own practice was a leap into the unknown. I was on my own, ambitious and eager to conquer the world. However, I quickly learned that success in architecture requires talent, hard work, and the ability to build a client base. I started small, taking whatever projects I could, even for relatives. A fellow architect friend of mine always reminded me that architecture isn't just a profession; it's a journey full of ups and downs, much like a roller coaster.

Solo venture challenges

CF: My career in architecture has been more like a marathon than a sprint. It's all about endurance. Imagine running a 42-kilometre race. Along the way, you'll feel like giving up at the 5th, 10th, and 20th kilometre, but the key is to keep going. In the early years, I'll admit, I was losing money and relied on my family’s support for basic needs or my office rent. It wasn't easy, but I persisted.

Gradually, things started to pick up. I got small projects, like designing a house here and there. It's all about resilience. After more than a decade in the field, I've reached a more comfortable and stable phase in my career, where my projects align more with my vision. Splitting from my partner at Taller Paralelo about three years ago was a significant change. It's challenging because when you have a partner, you always have another voice for reassurance and shared responsibilities. But now, I experience the downsides and the upsides of going solo. The biggest advantage is the freedom it brings. Sure, I'm shouldering more responsibilities, but I also can make my own decisions. Even if about 90% of these decisions might be wrong, they're mine, and that's what counts. This independence has made me feel more empowered, almost like a superhero, but it's accompanied by a greater sense of responsibility. It's a mix of feeling more in control yet also bearing the weight of all the decisions and their outcomes.

The nuances of persuasion

CF: A significant aspect of my life in architecture has been the influence of mentors. These individuals crossed my path and offered me fresh perspectives on architecture. As a student, feeling somewhat lost or unsure about your direction is common. You're often filled with doubts. But sometimes, a specific moment with the right person can completely change your outlook. A few words of encouragement or new thinking can make a big difference. I am particularly grateful for certain professors who believed in me at a time when I was unsure of my abilities.

One standout moment was when I was still studying, and a teacher asked me to assist in teaching drawing classes. It was a significant opportunity, especially since I wasn't a professional yet. This gesture showed they saw potential in me, which was both affirming and motivating. It was a turning point where I realised I had skills and potential in this field. Your experiences highlight how small moments and interactions can profoundly shape your self-perception, especially in a field as complex as architecture. These instances aren't just about understanding the profession and realising personal strengths and traits. For example, during my fourth semester, a comment from my teacher significantly impacted me. He pointed out a flaw in my project but acknowledged a convincing way I was presenting it, making him second-guess their judgment. This feedback was a revelation, I realised I had a knack for selling ideas, even if they weren't entirely right. These nuances in communication and persuasion often shape an architect's career.

Routine and responsibility

CF: Establishing a routine has been really effective for me. I’m quite particular about sticking to it. For instance, I start my day at around 6:15 AM, so I can head out by 7:15 AM. But usually, I find myself just sitting in bed when my alarm goes off at 7:15 AM. I need to be at the university by 8:00 AM for my classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This means I have to wake up just after 7:00 AM to take my son to daycare, he’s three years old. On these days, after dropping him off, I head straight to the university. My Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays follow a similar pattern. I usually get to my office by about 8:00 or 8:10 in the morning. Most people start arriving around 9:00, 9:15, or 9:30. I can’t say much about it since sometimes we all stay until 10 or 11 at night. I also need to make several site visits to the various construction projects we're overseeing or working on. Our office actually consists of 11 people, though not all are physically present in the office. Among us, 10 are architects. It's a bit unique, I suppose. We have one person handling all the administrative tasks and another assisting with construction. Everyone in the office is engaged in different projects. Our approach to work is quite academic. Let me explain why. I find it somewhat romantic, though sometimes I question if it's the most effective method. I prefer to assign each person in the office a project to manage from start to finish rather than pigeonholing them into specific roles like conceptual design, detail work, or model building. Whether a small or large-scale project, they coordinate it from the beginning. This can be challenging to balance, but with 10 people, it's manageable for now. Depending on their experience, sometimes an individual might handle two or three projects simultaneously. Our main manager oversees everything, though they're not exactly like a traditional workshop chief. Paola, for example, is involved in every project. Team members like Yoselín and Jorge handle two projects each, and those with less experience often assist them right from the start. This means a project might have two or three people working on it. Like any other office, when there's a deadline or a presentation, everyone pitches in to help, regardless of their individual projects. We function as a cohesive team, supporting each other as needed.

Contrasts in the capital

CF: Our projects are primarily based in and around Mexico City and the State of Mexico (Estado de Mexico). We're currently working on a house in Tepoztlán, Morelos. While we focus on design projects anywhere in the country, we're also open to international opportunities. A few years ago, we even worked on a hotel project in Primosten, Croatia, though it didn't progress further. Recently, we completed an office project in Guadalajara. Essentially, we're willing to take on projects wherever they may be. Mexico State, adjacent to Mexico City, shares a similar diversity. For instance, Valle de Bravo, located within the state and about two hours from the capital, is a popular weekend retreat for high-profile individuals. It showcases a stark contrast in living conditions within a relatively small area. Another example is Iztapalapa, a densely populated area with a very different demographic.

In Mexico City itself, the contrasts are equally striking. Santa Fe, for instance, is an area with high-end profiles situated right next to densely populated neighbourhoods. This juxtaposition creates a unique urban landscape, almost like borders within the city but without clear demarcations. These contrasts deeply influence our perspective and work. Growing up in this environment, we've become familiar with the varying conditions, which naturally shapes our thinking. This situation highlights a significant gap between social classes, addressing part of your initial question. Our designs and projects are informed by this cultural and social context, reflecting the diverse and complex environment in which we operate. It's a complex issue, indeed. The reality is that while social architecture projects in Mexico are immensely fulfilling for me, they're not always financially sustainable. Most of our work depends on clients from wealthier segments of society, as they have the resources necessary for large-scale projects. Our office mainly caters to the private sector, including banks and various large enterprises with the financial means. On the other hand, there's a significant need for architectural services in less affluent communities. In Mexico, a considerable amount of housing is self-constructed, accounting for about 95% of all homes. This is particularly concerning in a country prone to earthquakes. Ideally, there would be more opportunities for architects to contribute their expertise in these areas, perhaps in roles that provide professional guidance to various sectors of society. However, the reality of capitalism cannot be ignored. While there's a desire to engage more in social projects, the financial aspects and our dependence on the private sector for sustainable business are undeniable challenges in the field.

Rediscovering an architectural wonder

CF: We definitely have our architecture superheroes, but drawing inspiration from various sources is important. Let me break this down a bit through an anecdote, focusing on the approach to architecture in our office. In 2023, I attended this conference featuring two of my favourite architects from the past decade: Marcio Kogan and Olson Kundig. Kogan, a Brazilian architect, and Kundig, a duo based in Seattle, have left a profound impact on me with their remarkable approach to architecture. Kogan, he's a true genius. The way he perceives and interprets architecture is simply mind-blowing. You know, at 38, I still crave that sense of wonder and being completely awestruck. “Remember when you were a kid?” Everything seemed incredible, like seeing the sea for the first time or taking your plane ride. We need to hold onto that ability to be amazed. So, back to the conference. Despite my initial reluctance to attend, I was captivated by Kogan's presentation. He didn't just talk about architecture; he shared snippets of his life, from childhood memories to his wedding day, all woven together to illustrate his perspective on architecture. It was a reminder that architecture is more than just buildings; it's about the stories and experiences they embody. And then there's Olson and Kundig, a fascinating duo. What struck me most was their dynamic as partners. One leads design, while the other provides critique and perspective. It's a unique approach that challenges conventional norms in architecture. Witnessing such innovation reignited my passion for the field. Moments like these remind me why I fell in love with architecture in the first place. That sense of wonder, that feeling of being in awe—it's something I never want to lose. So, I'm committed to staying open-minded and continually seeking inspiration, just like I did when I was a student, marvelling at every building and design that crossed my path. That's where the magic lies, and I intend to keep chasing it.

A dynamic exchange

CF: I find the world can sometimes be a bit dull, but I firmly believe in the power of logic when it comes to architecture. I always say, both in design and construction, you've got to approach things logically. You do your research, study, and then come up with a solution. It's as simple as that. There may be countless ways to arrive at the correct answer in architecture, but if it makes sense, it makes sense. That's the bottom line. So, I constantly stress to everyone in the office: tackle every aspect, every angle, every analysis with a logical mindset, and you'll be on the right track. What really gets me going, though, is the ongoing discussion about how to reach that solution. I'm fascinated by those moments when we're brainstorming, sketching, throwing ideas around, and then someone says something seemingly trivial, but it sparks a whole new line of thought in someone else's mind. That's the magic of it. It's those unexpected connections, those flashes of insight, that make the process so exhilarating. It's like a puzzle coming together, and I absolutely thrive on that dynamic exchange of ideas. So, I make an effort, I don't always succeed, of course, but I try to involve as many people as possible right from the get-go. Because when you have a bunch of minds coming together, and discussing things, some ideas might seem logical, some might seem completely off the wall, and some might just be pure genius. But it's that blend, that mix of perspectives, that often leads to the best results. You see, you can't expect every project to be flawless from start to finish regarding case studies. Things evolve, and circumstances change. Maybe the users' needs shift, and maybe the environment transforms. Architecture has to be flexible and adaptable. That's the beauty of it, really. Embracing its imperfections and its constant evolution can actually lead to better outcomes.

Architectural triumphs

CF: Three really stand out for me when I think about my most significant projects. Each one presented its own set of challenges but also brought immense satisfaction. Take, for instance, the pro bono house we built in the aftermath of Hurricane in 2017 in the state of Mexico, Casa Mulato. Working closely with Paola, we visited the site weekly, connecting with the family who had lost their home. It was heartbreaking to witness their struggles, but the joy of being able to provide them with a new space, even if it was just a modest dwelling, was indescribable. Sure, the house's architecture may not have been groundbreaking, but the amount of care, passion, and dedication we poured into it made it a truly fulfilling project. Then there's another project, more focused on artistic expression, a pavilion I collaborated on with colleagues and students. It was a fascinating mix of ideas and talents. Those students were like my own; together, we constructed this pavilion using 75,000 bricks. The scale of it was just awe-inspiring. Projects like these remind me why I got into architecture in the first place, the opportunity to make a tangible difference and create something meaningful, whether it's for a family in need or artistic exploration. Another project  hat significantly shaped my approach to architecture was the creation of an urban garden spanning about 2,000 square meters. What made it particularly noteworthy was our use of laminated wood for the entire structure, columns, beams, the works. This project, dating back eight years, opened my eyes to the potential of wood as a building material. It's incredible to see how countries like Australia and Canada are embracing wood for high-rise buildings, even using cross-laminated timber for the floors. The sustainability aspect is particularly appealing; wood is the only material that grows in your backyard. Admittedly, implementing such practices in Mexico City requires navigating complex regulations, but it ignited a passion for incorporating wood into my designs. 

Rewarding challenges

CF: It's quite a commitment, you know, traching about eight hours a week, carving out those two mornings on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I might joke about giving up whiskey, but I'll never give up teaching my students. It's a mixed bag sometimes, it feels like a love-hate relationship. There are moments when the time investment feels overwhelming, but those golden students blow you away with their fresh perspectives. It's remarkable how much you can learn from them, even as someone who's been in the field for years. They keep you on your toes and your mind open, and that's truly invaluable. I teach in the main workshop, the heart of our program. Picture this: six professors, many eager students, and many projects to delve into. Our role is to guide them and offer insights, but ultimately, their creativity drives the process forward. It's a dynamic exchange, a collaborative journey towards unlocking their potential. And let me tell you, seeing them flourish, witnessing their ideas take shape, that's what it's all about.

The emerging generation seems more attuned to the broader societal issues rather than focusing solely on personal gain. This shift necessitates a change in how we approach architecture and our broader perspective as human beings. The context in Mexico, like many places, is evolving rapidly. As professionals, we must be adaptable and open to new information and technologies. AI, for instance, is often viewed with scepticism, almost like it's something to be feared. However, the academic workshops I conduct at the university emphasise the importance of integrating AI into our practices. Although I'm not adept at using AI, I understand its significance and the need to learn. Shary, an architect on our team who is currently in Barcelona, is particularly enthusiastic about architectural research and is exploring ways we can incorporate AI into our workshop. This exploration is not just about keeping up with technological advancements; it's about responding to the changing landscape of our profession and society, making these tools a part of our everyday work life. Besides this aspect, I often look at the youngest generation curiously and compare myself to them. Their mindset appears different, they seem less driven by the desire for more, which raises a question: “Are we, the older generations, the ones with the flawed approach, always wanting more?”. It's a point worth considering as we navigate these two worlds and look towards the future.