MENTES VOL. 1_2021

It is difficult to bet on a printed medium these days. Without a doubt, one of the questions we have received the most during these months is why we do not limit ourselves to digital content. In a world where most things are read on a screen, we want to return to the experience of picking up a book, feeling different textures while turning the pages and knowing the real weight of all the content we have generated. Being architects and designers, we give equal value to the content we publish and how we publish it. We took the time to design a piece that deserves to be part of every bookcase. We think of a complete experience, from the selection of materials to the design of its spine and stitching. How do we communicate through design?

Following the motto of spreading the emerging discourse and the voice of experience, we decided not to take a position that imposes or affirms, but to approach 16 different practices to share the world of which we were a part in each of these talks, generating empathy between the interviewees and the reader. Being witnesses rather than critics, we seek to diversify what is understood today by being an architect, showing the paths and the different methodologies that can be followed according to the affinities and abilities of each individual. That is why, more than celebrating results, we highlight processes. We want to be the platform that generates discussion and questioning for the opening of new approaches and perspectives on the practice. Thus be able to achieve new collaborations and expand the small circle that only the privileged enjoy.

Editor's Note

I look back and wonder when and how I got here. Undoubtedly, a big motivation has been the constant questioning of what it means to be an architect. Although the answer has changed countless times in my head, I think I have finally come to the conclusion that there is no answer. If there is one thing we architects enjoy, it is the multiple facets that can refer to our title. After a self-knowledge process we can identify our strengths and weaknesses, transforming the struggle of standing out and being the best at something, into the value of what makes you different from others.

Every architect has a reason to be part of this profession. Although it is difficult to identify that purpose, it is crucial to do so in order to be able to take the next step and contribute to the world in your own way. I would dare to say that if we have something in common is the search and validation of our talent and voice within our environment. It is when you let go of all those insecurities that you reach a true state of inspiration and proposal, achieving to improve our context, whether on a smaller or larger scale. 

These are a series of moments that shape us and add value to our journey in this world. It is when you assimilate and connect them that you manage to make sense of your life and your profession. A job in the office of your dreams that can be a disappointment; multiple interviews without any response; failed projects and contests; studies inside and abroad your country that change your life; trips and relationships that dimention the small context that many of us do not expand; multiple experiences that shape us, not only as architects, but as individuals. 

And suddenly, it all makes sense. You leave the idealizations behind and identify those moments that fulfill you, where you give more than your hundred percent. That’s when you become the best version of yourself, and feel realized. My purpose through meeting and talking with each person who made the content of these pages possible, is that each reader finds their own. Because only through the diversity of talent, we can collaborate, form better teams and have a greater impact. This is why I seek and hope that my purpose contributes to that intention.