My name is Andrew Benavides. I come from a large background of makers: architects, engineers, masons etc. I take pride in my design, work ethic and aspirations. However, I take most pride in my social and communicative ability; an ability to showcase and translate design and our work to all people in a poetic yet understanding way. I believe that the most beautiful and meaningful design is only a portion of our job as architects and designers. Our designs are for the occupant or the people and the community, therefore our jobs are also that of speakers of the design, for without us, the project has no voice. I have found that I experience equal joy and proficiency in the speaking of a project to people as I do in the most passionate of design times. 

In times of disarray and disaster, I have been able to, with a team of likeminded designers, provide ideas and hopes for the future of a community constantly battered by natural disasters. In 2017 and 2018, I have traveled to Puerto Rico with other students and professors for an international workshop called PuertoRico_ReStart. I both designed and presented sustainable, affordable and poetic design solutions at both the urban and residential scale for various areas along the island. 

I intend to use my various passions to better all projects and designs I can. Amongst the passions of mine, is a love for film and the visual media. I utilize this other passion as a tool in better communicating design using a medium loved by many. With my unique skillsets and drive, I am excited to discuss the potential innovation these skills can bring the profession.