Throughout his seven-year career, he has amassed substantial expertise in large-scale residential projects and various architectural typologies. His involvement in high-end interior design, urban planning, and preservation projects reflects his broad skill set and dedication to architecture. This passion first became evident when his undergraduate thesis project was constructed by the city, embodying local needs and visions for a pivotal public space.
After earning his Master's Degree in Advanced Architectural Design from Columbia University, where he studied under Andres Jacque & Steven Holl, he developed a unique architectural language inspired by music. This integration of art, light, and technology has not only fueled his creativity but also reinforced his dual career as a musician, allowing him to blend his two greatest passions.
Continuously seeking to advance his knowledge in architectural technologies, he participated in the Futurly Workshop led by Mariana Cabugueria from Zaha Hadid Architects. There, he honed skills in creating organic forms using Maya, ZBrush, Grasshopper, and Rhino. His project 'Akakor' was showcased at the Digital Futures Young Edition, where he was a featured speaker.
As a researcher at the Online Lab of Architecture, he explores innovative architectural technologies. His project 'Power of Data' processes social media data to enhance architectural practices and has been exhibited in Hong Kong, Paris, Madrid, and Lima.
In 2024, his efforts were recognized with Fray Jose Maria Vargas Award for “Mi Juventud” House in Cuenca, Ecuador, a UNESCO world heritage city. This project was praised for enriching urban life and preserving historical districts. Additionally, his “Rocas de Misicata” project won the Ornato Gil Ramirez Dávalos Award in 2019 for the best building in Cuenca, Ecuador, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Grear Architects, Ecuador, Lead Designer
Experience developing projects in Europe, Middle East and America.
Role: From scratch to detail and design development, construction documents, construction administration, budget in the following projects:
• Al Helal Chalet | Residential Project | Marina in Al Khiran,Kwt 2021
• Casa mi Juventud | Mixed Use - Project inside a heritage site | Cuenca,Ec 2020
• Rocas de Misicata | Housing large scale project | Cuenca,Ec 2019.
Leading a design team of 10 designers.
Also we were involved in construction administration (200 people), and site supervision.
This project won Ornato Gil Ramirez Davalos Award as best large scale building built | Ec 2019
• De la Piedra House | Residential Project | Kiev,Ur 2018
• Gualaceo Square | Urban Project | Gualaceo,Ec 2017
Columbia University, New York, NY, US, Masters, Ms. Advanced Architectural Design
Cuenca University, Cuenca, EC, BArch, Bachelor of Architecture
Fray José María Vargas, Award
Jose Luis Vintimilla was honored for the project "Mi Juventud" House with the prestigious Fray Jose Maria Vargas Award for Excellence in Rehabilitation Projects in Cuenca, Ecuador. Presented by the esteemed City of Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage City, this recognition highlights Vintimilla's exceptional contribution to preserving the city's historical fabric while revitalizing its urban landscape. His award-winning project not only restores a significant heritage building but also integrates a contemporary mixed-use architectural block, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation. This endeavor not only enhances the charm of Cuenca's historic district but also fosters the sustainable development and vitality of key urban areas.
Published in ABSTRACT 2020 by Columbia University GSAPP, Award
"Abstract is the yearly publication of work and research from Columbia GSAPP. Produced through the Office of the Dean Amale Andraos, the archive of student work contains documentation of exceptional projects, selected by faculty at the conclusion of each semester."
Gil Ramirez Davalos Award, Award
Jose Luis Vintimilla garnered acclaim by clinching the Ornato Gil Ramirez Dávalos Award for his visionary work in crafting one of Cuenca's most significant residential projects, Rocas de Misicata. Recognized as the epitome of excellence in urban development, this project stands as a testament to Vintimilla's commitment to architectural innovation and community enhancement. The Municipality of Cuenca bestowed upon it the prestigious title of the finest large-scale building of 2019, particularly commending its vertical/horizontal integration within the cityscape. Notably, it secured top honors in the high-rise category for its pivotal role in neighborhood advancement and its judicious use of locally sourced materials, notably brick, underscoring a harmonious fusion of modern design and traditional craftsmanship.
