I decided to study architecture when I was 16. It wasn’t the first career choice I considered; at 5, I wanted to be a priest. I started college at 18, graduated 6 after that and it’s been 28 since, so if you are really interested in finding out my age, you can do the math.

One of the things I learned early on in architecture school is we are all designers. Any controlled activity is designed and sometimes changes the course of history, like the way the invention of the flush toilet is linked to the viability of the high rise building. Ok, reinforced concrete was instrumental too.

So if all of us are designers, why the need for a design industry? Notice I didn’t say everyone is a good designer. One of the reasons clients hire my firm, Studio Santalla, is they have something they want changed and we can figure it out for them. So today, I’ll share a few select moments involving a leap, a feat or a coup!

Here’s a project we completed in the early days of Studio Santalla.

BEFORE

I understand Laura Ashley spent her last days here. Upon her passing, it was time for a change.
AFTER

Sometimes, it’s about helping people find their inner “design” voice. Whew!

AFTER

Truth be known, the person who designed this workstation intended it in the most temporary, makeshift way, but it makes for a great “before” shot.

BEFORE

The workspace, redefined as a showplace for art.

AFTER

Painting by Keith Milow; Sculpture by Nelson Carrilho

I love my job and I’m 52, BTW.

For more information on Studio Santalla, visit www.studiosantalla.com

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Twitter: @Studio_Santalla @ernestosantalla