Beyond cityscapes

DM: I strongly believe we're part of a new generation encompassing various life aspects. We belong to a demographic, roughly the '85 to '90 generation, shaped by the rapid evolution of technology worldwide. Our experiences range from the analogue era, like using Nokia phones, to the digital age. This duality is evident in our approach to architecture, where we seamlessly integrate traditional and modern methods. In Mexico, this generational shift is palpable in the evolving cityscape. However, beyond mere urban development, Mexico offers a rich landscape of opportunities. The country's demographic diversity presents not just clients but a plethora of challenges waiting to be tackled, not solely from an architectural standpoint. Politically and sociologically, Mexico is in flux, lacking clear beginnings or endings. Despite this uncertainty, many individuals, including our clients, are actively engaged in navigating these challenges. The resilience and ingenuity of the Mexican people inspire us. We see ourselves as part of a proactive generation armed with insights from the past, present, and even glimpses of the future. In this dynamic environment, we have the tools and the mindset to effect change rapidly. Our analysis suggests that we are poised to leverage our knowledge and resources to address pressing issues and seize opportunities with agility and creativity.

RY: Our generation is experiencing a significant shift from the structured, theoretical approaches of the past to more innovative and adaptable methods. This evolution is evident globally and in Mexico, where, as Diego pointed out, many issues stem from governmental inconsistencies and societal dynamics. Consequently, there's a growing demand for architects to address these challenges, leading to a surge in the number of emerging architectural studios. Starting a studio might seem straightforward initially, but the reality sinks in after about a decade. Despite the challenges, many architects forge ahead, spurred by the opportunities Mexico presents. Whether tackling small-scale projects like bathrooms or venturing into larger endeavours, the environment in Mexico fosters a culture where aspiring architects can take the leap without hesitation.

DM: Mexico boasts a rich cultural mix, yet it grapples with shortcomings in urbanism and architecture. Despite the captivating intricacies visible to outsiders, the execution often falls short, particularly evident during seismic events where structural failures are all too common. Our generation isn't merely focused on executing projects well; we're driven to be part of the solution. For decades, from the 1980s to the present, Mexican architecture has lacked aesthetic appeal, functionality, and consideration of crucial complexities. We're part of a cohort aiming to rectify these deficiencies and bring a more thoughtful approach to architecture in Mexico.

Breaking the architectural bubble

DM: Construction often overshadows restoration efforts in urgent, developing countries like Mexico. Unlike in Europe, where expertise in restoration is highly valued and requires extensive experience, here in Latin America, particularly Mexico, the focus is more on new construction. This results in a mishmash of architectural styles and proportions, even in historically significant areas. This lack of contextual constraints, as Rosalia points out, provides a sort of freedom, an "if it sells, let's do it" mentality prevails.

In my second job, I designed a large auditorium for 10,000-20,000 people, named Auditorio BlackBerry, while working at Estudio Atemporal. At just 25 or 26, I handled projects usually reserved for much older architects. This shows that while affordability is a concern, finding innovative ways to work within a budget can lead to great achievements. In essence, it's about balancing cost and opportunity. Essentially, you're touching on our studio's core philosophy, which is a constant critique of what's wrong in our field. We're known for this mindset throughout the day, and it's evident in our work, showcasing some of the most eclectic architecture in Latin America, particularly in Mexico. Our philosophy revolves around not just improving our craft but making it accessible to everyone, including those who might not afford it. This approach to architecture isn't just about doing better; it's about inclusivity and breaking away from the speculative bubble that dominates the industry. 

Launching independent visions

RY: Our journey began at UNAM, where we worked on our final year project together. Not only did we find great synergy in our work, but it also marked the start of our personal relationship. After graduating successfully, we initially joined different architectural firms, each gaining about two years of experience. However, we soon realised that we wanted to shape our ideas independently, not just follow what others expected of us. Motivated by this desire, we started our own office right in our home with a single project. We committed fully to it, seeing it as our launching point. A common misconception in Mexico is that starting your own office is easy. We quickly learned that wasn't the case. It's a challenging journey, but one you must embark on without overthinking, or else you might never take the leap. The first project we took on in our office was a beachside development, a project close to our hearts. Despite our dedicated efforts, it's still under construction a decade later, a testament to architecture's complexities and unforeseen challenges.

DM: My career  took a significant turn when I collaborated with Luciana de la Garza y Paul Curuchet from Estudio Atemporal. This wasn't just about architecture; it was a blend of entrepreneurship, creativity, and design. During this time, I was also deeply involved in the nightlife scene, DJing and designing spaces like bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, including the Auditorio Blackberry. These experiences were instrumental in shaping my approach to architecture beyond the conventional scope. They taught me how to be an entrepreneur and view architecture from various perspectives. This period was crucial in my decision, along with Rosalia, to establish our own practice. Our early projects, including designing over 50 bathrooms and kitchens, honed our skills in expressing ourselves through small spaces and materials, and dealing with practical aspects like budgets, plumbing, and electricity. We learned to love the intricacies of our practice.

Our first significant project was Agua de Coco in Puerto Escondido, which is still ongoing. It represents the culmination of our diverse experiences and the start of our journey as independent architects. We began in our home with modest resources, juggling different roles and gradually expanding our team. We were a small team, just the two of us and one employee working tirelessly on various projects. That's how our office, OPA - Oficina de Practica Arquitectonica, was born. We had to establish new methodologies because our formal education hadn't prepared us for the practical aspects of our profession. This gap in our education became a significant part of our learning journey. Our real education began in the office, and it's a common narrative among many architects. The practical aspect of structuring and managing construction projects is something you often don't learn in school but in the field. It's intriguing that this lack of practical education is a widespread issue in the architectural community.

Full-cycle development adventure

DM: One of the most exciting things we're into now is development. It's not just about designing architecture; it's about financing and constructing buildings and everything in between. It's like imagining a line that isn't limited to just one thing. “Can I do it?”. Yeah, “I can design it. Can I finance it?”. Probably, yes. “Can I build it?”. Absolutely! So, we're scaling up, and one anecdote we really cherish is a project involving constructing a new development an old apartment building. It had around 1.000 square meters and consisted of six apartments. We approached it very personally, hands-only, almost like a friends and family project. At the time, we were collaborating with developers, but we took the initiative to raise funds and manage the architectural and engineering aspects of the building. But what I truly cherish about this project is the big demolition party we threw. It was a house that needed to be torn down, so we did it but turned it into a celebratory event.

RY: Before demolishing it, we organised a party, and the unique twist was that we invited everyone to join in breaking things because the building was scheduled for demolition anyway. We had spray paints, and although it might have seemed like a crazy idea, we went for it. We had DJs and everything, you name it. We even have pictures from the day before and the day after. It was incredible, a total transformation of the house. Our first apartment building project followed that, which got us thinking and understanding the development process. And now, we're heavily involved in that aspect of the industry.

Pyramid structure in practice

RY: Starting out, it was challenging to define our roles. Initially, there's a temptation to be involved in everything, but that approach doesn't work. Team division is crucial for productivity. After two or three years, I found myself leading the design aspect, focusing on aesthetics and continuity. Diego, on the other hand, handles administration, finance, and client communication and oversees the building phase. He also serves as the originator of ideas for each project, organising chaos and setting the stage for collaboration. 

DM: Our architectural practice operates in a rather unique, pyramidal structure. At the top, we have two directors: one focusing on project direction and the other on executive management. This dual leadership approach allows us to cover different aspects of our practice effectively. Beneath us are the project managers who oversee all projects rather than being assigned to individual ones. This holistic approach enables a broader perspective on each project. Then, the less experienced staff are primarily responsible for drafting and modelling. Their lack of experience is the only real hierarchy in our practice, but we operate in a very circular, collaborative manner. We encourage all team members to contribute ideas regardless of their role. 

We're still working on bridging the gap between managers and client involvement. Our organisation emphasises efficient drawing and understanding of the financial implications of design decisions, especially in Mexico, where costs are crucial. We've learned from past experiences that overly detailed drawings can be impractical and costly. Now, our team, including two architects and a finance specialist,José, while the two managers, Vico and Carlos, oversee the projects and consult with Rosalía for design input. This setup is quite different from the past when we tried to have managers with even just a year of experience. This evolution reflects our learning and adaptation over time.

RY: For us, operating in a perpetual manner, though it might sound office-like, is actually quite effective. Unlike many horizontal offices where the boss still holds sway, it fosters transparency. We encourage mistakes and daring initiatives, promising constructive feedback rather than outright discouragement. This approach is why people enjoy working with us. Those who've been with us for a decade attest to this, noting rapid personal and professional growth due to their involvement in various aspects of our work. We constantly undertake diverse projects rapidly, requiring our team to adapt and learn continuously. We don't explicitly instruct them to learn; it happens organically as they immerse themselves in the architectural work. Amidst the hustle, there's little time for idle contemplation.

Navigating professional discrimination

RY: As a female architect, I've encountered unique challenges in the industry, which has traditionally been dominated by men. My approach to construction differs from the norm, I prefer precision and efficiency, which can clash with Mexico's often non-linear construction processes. Additionally, in client interactions, I've observed a tendency for them to defer to my male colleagues, even in situations where I am equally involved. While I could push to assert myself more, I prioritise focusing on aspects of the work I enjoy rather than constantly trying to prove myself. It's evident that gender dynamics play a role, but I'm hesitant to adopt a more assertive approach like Diego's. Perhaps it's a matter of personal preference, but navigating these challenges is an inherent part of our profession. I find myself wasting significant time and energy waiting for construction progress as promised. The constant letdowns and delays leave me feeling exhausted, so I sometimes opt out of overseeing construction altogether. 

DM: The frustration of fighting against discrimination often outweighs any tangible progress. Rosalía's approach to ensuring correctness from the outset resonates with me. While I may have a higher tolerance for resolving issues as they arise, the ideal practice of architecture should mirror Rosalía's commitment to excellence from the start. Unfortunately, this isn't always the case, and architects face challenges in getting people to adhere to expectations.

Shifting focus

RY: Over the years at OPA, we initially focused on fulfilling client demands, such as beach houses and renovations. However, as time passed, our interests shifted towards sustainability. This led us to further exploration and learning, including a diploma course in Barcelona dedicated to the subject. Initially, we were enthusiastic about incorporating passive sustainability measures into our projects, proposing ideas to clients and focusing intensely on this aspect. We meticulously considered orientations, mass, volumes, and airflow, aiming for optimal environmental activation. However, we eventually realised that this approach was challenging to impose and sustain despite our abundance of ideas. However sometimes clients do not care for all of this.Reflecting on our experiences, we began questioning whether we could be our own clients. This introspection led to a pivotal moment where we embarked on a project of significant scale, one public space and two parks. This endeavour, named Parque Cuitláhuac, became a testament to our ethical and moral considerations. Despite the minimal financial investment, our dedication to incorporating sustainable practices earned us international recognition and prestigious awards.

DM: In the 90s, this area was used as a dumping ground for the city's garbage, spanning acres. Along with the engineers who invited us, we transformed this space. We compacted the trash to create floor building blocks and designed beautiful pathways. A local factory was established to support this initiative. We focused on creating playful and engaging spaces for children and the local community. This was particularly important in Iztapalapa, a part of the city with contrasting socioeconomic areas. One part is relatively affluent with bustling commerce, while other areas, like the one we worked in, are impoverished and lack safe, communal spaces. Our project aimed to enhance this neglected area.

RY: These experiences led us to a pivotal realisation: we could become our own clients. This autonomy would allow us to implement sustainable practices without needing external approval. And so, we found a way to integrate our vision of sustainability directly into our projects. We're currently developing Saladita Beach, emphasising passive, sustainable architecture. Our approach involves building minimally, using only 20-30% of available land on a 1,000-square-meter site, to lessen our environmental footprint while considering financial viability. In parallel, we're remodelling apartments cost-effectively and sustainably, reducing the carbon footprint and making housing more affordable. In Mexico, where purchasing apartments in desirable areas like Condesa, Roma, and Juarez is usually reserved for the wealthy, we aim to make sustainable and secure housing accessible to more people.

RY: From the outset, our practice has embraced a fearless approach to all our projects, regardless of scale. We started with bathrooms and then progressed to apartments, houses, parks, museums, and even buildings. Despite occasional fears about whether we're doing things right, we've never shied away from a challenge or restricted ourselves due to fear. This bold approach has allowed us to learn and grow with each project. We haven't cancelled projects out of fear but have instead pushed through, gaining confidence in our design capabilities. Over the years, this mindset has equipped us with the knowledge, skills, and courage to complete projects successfully. 

From design to business success

DM: We've cultivated a groundbreaking approach that intertwines finance and architecture seamlessly. Over the years, we've honed our ability to optimise resources, telling clients, "You have one euro, we can make it work with one euro." This mindset permeates every aspect of our practice, from design to material selection, negotiation, and timing. Our commitment to delivering comprehensive solutions is evident in our approach to commercial architecture. For instance, we offer clients a turnkey solution, guiding them from conceptualisation to execution, ensuring aesthetically pleasing spaces and successful businesses. In the housing realm, we challenge conventional speculation by prioritising sustainable renewal or construction. As developers, we understand the importance of involvement in the entire process, from design to execution. This ethos underscores our advice to students: seize opportunities to be involved in the business aspect of architecture. Whether it's through earning from fees or investing in ventures like restaurants, integrating business acumen into architectural practice is key to success. As architects, we aren’t taught the practicalities of sustaining a livelihood beyond our passion for design. The prevailing notion that one should be an architect for life is flawed; there's a broader world beyond architecture that demands attention. We've recognised the importance of engaging with the business side of our profession. By involving ourselves in ventures like property development and restaurant ownership, we diversify our income streams and secure our financial future. This proactive approach ensures that our livelihood isn't solely reliant on project-based work, providing stability for ourselves and future generations.

Embracing the circular economy

RY: We've also embarked on a new venture within our architectural office: furniture design. We're establishing a dedicated woodworking atelier to craft standalone furniture pieces and integrated elements for our architectural projects. This is an exciting new chapter for us.

DM: We're planning a workshop because our carpenter is phenomenal, and our metalworker complements his skills perfectly. People often wonder why we haven't done this sooner, so now we dive in. We've noticed that our friends in similar trades are earning more than architects. So, we're delving into these businesses, learning how to profit from them. Our workshop embraces the concept of a circular economy, where we provide our own projects and services. We craft furniture for our developments and charge for it, ensuring it's not a free endeavour.

Our approach to work is shaped by our personal lives, particularly our family. We have two children, and maintaining emotional stability is crucial to being intellectually responsive. Achieving a balance is essential, professionally and in projecting a fulfilling personal life. Financially, we're not wealthy but constantly strive to create a stable foundation. This stability allows us to grow our practice and provide opportunities for others. As architects, we don't just focus on the technical aspects; we also consider the broader implications of our practice. I believe architecture is deeply philosophical, and our views on it may evolve over time. Currently, we're in a phase of questioning and refining our philosophy.