Santiago was born and raised in Medellin and Bogota, Colombia.  He comes from generations imbedded in fine arts, literature, and architecture. Ortiz moved to the United States (Providence, RI) to pursue Architecture and Fine Arts studies and a career in design and architecture. He graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design with  degrees in Architecture (B. of Arch.) and Fine Arts (B.F.A) in 1999. Santiago relocated to Los Angeles, CA immediately after graduation and began working for small architecture firms focused on high end custom homes and boutique commercial spaces. Since launched in 2006, ORTIZ MEXIA PROJECTS, INC. has been building a reputation for a timeless and elegant style; from new construction, residential additions and alterations to  individual pieces of furniture. His family home has been featured multiple times on the Venice, CA home and garden tour circuits, including the prestigious AIA | LA Chapter Home Tours. He has been Published on Interior Design Magazine and on the Los Angeles Times Print and Online Newspaper. Santiago is an Associate Member at The American Institute of Architects and an active Intern Architect taking the Architect Registration Examination through the California Architects Board to acquire Architectural License in the State of California.