Archinect
Mariel Reyes

Mariel Reyes

New York, NY, US

 

About 

A focused, young professional seeking to build experience in design based on process and theory.  I am reaching outside of my comfort zone in an effort to live the life I've always dreamed.


Not every space we inhabit has been given the architectural attention it deserves; grocery stores, strip malls, even truck stops.  How different would the world be if these spaces were designed with specific tasks and functions in mind?  Architects exist to serve their potential users.  When designing a home, it becomes important to understand the activities that will take place within that home.  The same theory of pragmatics and purpose is to be applied in all design endeavors.


The particular program of a space becomes a problem that must be solved through design.  Parameters are given that then begin to frame a functional response to site and program.  It becomes important to allow these conditions to drive design because there must be more behind architecture than sculptural aesthetics.  This is exactly what sets architects apart from artists.  Don't get me wrong, I view architecture as art, but there has got to be more to it than that.  Architecture is a science; we must think, analyze, and, sometimes, provoke actions from others in order to create successful design.


Because architecture must be greater than sculpture, it no longer makes sense to apply cosmetic elements that do nothing more than fulfill an aesthetic desire.  Architecture should not lie to you.  The inherent qualities necessary to keep a building standing are fascinating enough, so there is no longer a need for superficial application of things to spark interest.  Architecture is about creating spaces for optimal use, being more than just art, and keeping it simple.

Employment 

University of Houston, Adjunct Faculty, Undergraduate Design

Studio Critic for a First Year Architecture Design Studio in a 5-year NCARB Accredited Program. Introduce to students basic design skills and theories related to spatial relationships, diagramming, history, color and craft.

Aug 2008 - current
 

RWS Architects, Incorporated, Job Captain

Small firm setting that allows for a wide range of responsibilities including: project management and production through all phases of design, providing design insight to clients in the form of presentation boards and brochures, coordinating with consultants and contractors, and preparing qualification statements for new business

Jul 2007 - current
 

fd2s, Inc., Design Intern

Sep 2006 - Oct 2007
 

Education 

The University of Texas at Austin, MArch, Post Professional

Aug 2006 - Dec 2007
 

University of Houston, BArch, Architecture

Aug 2001 - May 2006
 

Awards 

Undergraduate Design Award, Honorable Mention

2006
 

Skills