Principal and founder of Habanero Architecture, Jose Lopez, was born and raised in Merida, Mexico where he earned his bachelor’s degree from the State University of Yucatan (UADY) in 2008. During his architectural studies he was able to study abroad in Panama City at the Ithsmus University in Panama, and in Rennes in the Ecole D'ARchitecture de la Bretagne, France [EAB - School of Architecture of Brittany, France].
Previous to moving the United States, Jose ran a design-build studio where he worked as an architect and general contractor. As principal in charge he was able to design several small residential and commercial projects. In 2009 he moved to North Carolina and was honored to work for great firms where he was exposed to a diverse collection of projects of different scales and complexities. 
He has ample knowledge of construction materials and methods as well as a deep passion for quality, sustainability and thoughtful design. While working for Szotak Design and ThoughCraft Architects (previously known as CUBE design + research) he built an extensive portfolio of highly crafted projects. He honed his proficiency with clients and project management, allowing him to skillfully represent client's vision and goals. 
Jose resides in Raleigh, North Carolina. He is a husband and father of a 3-year old girl that loves spending time in her modern home designed and build by her father. In his free time, he enjoys simple things in life, like soccer, hockey, guitars and music. Travelling is one of his favorite activities. He always carries his camera to capture new stories to tell and ideas to ponder. While studying abroad he traveled through Europe and learned about its people, culture, urbanism, architecture diversity, as well as material and methods of construction.