By Amelia Cuesta
Editorial Staff El Inmobiliario
SANTO DOMINGO.- In light of "World Architect's Day and World Habitat Day", celebrated on October 3rd, it is a pleasure to present the journey of a cheerful, conscious and determined professional in the field, such as architect and interior designer Sonya Pérez.
Deeply aware of the challenges the world faces, she advocates for raising awareness so that the country has buildings that are friendly to the climate, to nature, and to all the sustainable solutions that exist to contribute to the planet.
Sensitivity to a city burdened and saturated with repetitive patterns is one of the goals she seeks to achieve in her projects. In this conversation, you will learn about her aspirations, concerns, and tastes.
How would you describe Sonya Pérez?
Cheerful, spiritual, loving, healthy, prosperous, wise, intelligent, creative, dynamic, awake, magnetic, sociable, honest and loyal.
What do you like most about life?
Above all, it's the spiritual aspect; we are a reflection of the soul, and life's experiences bring you closer to the greatness of being human. "Every day I try to be a better person; that's what I strive for.".
How long have you been in the program?
As an architect since the late 90s, as an interior designer it all started when I went to the city of Miami, also in the late 90s. Then I returned to the Dominican Republic and made a fusion and since then I do both.
What have been the best moments of your career?
The day I presented my thesis, plus the day I graduated. My graduation because it represents a personal, divine achievement. The second moment was when I came back to the country in 2000; I returned with a maturity in defining my goals and objectives, and now, which is the best moment I'm living in my life, the present.
What has been your favorite project and why?
Quinta Guavaberry, my latest house project because I was able to participate in everything: construction, architecture, interior design, landscaping, lighting. I say it's my masterpiece, my true child.
What do you like least about life?
The word NO
Do you have a hobby?
I practice meditation, hip hop, go for drives, put the top down, and hit the open road. I exercise regularly. I love doing everything.
What is your favorite phrase or word?
“No, no, no, no,” “There always has to be a minimum,” “If it’s not to break things, I won’t do it.”.
What do you seek to achieve in your architectural projects?
A sensitivity to a city burdened and saturated with repetitive patterns. In my projects, I connect from a contemporary perspective with a tropical product that links with its surroundings and the public space, which in turn subtly merges with the collective.
“We all need to become more aware of climate-friendly buildings, buildings that are kind to nature, and all the sustainable solutions that exist to contribute to our planet.”.
What is the brand that helps us say "this spectacular building was designed by Sonya Pérez"?
Faced with such a wealth of excellent architecture, defining my designs as a brand is a bit complex. But I would say that I am characterized by the implementation of materials and open spaces that blend seamlessly with our tropical climate, always merging the spaces with nature and their surroundings. Large central courtyards merge with the project and lend warmth to the final product.
What inspires you when you create a design??
My inspiration comes with each commission; each one has its own identity. When conceptualizing, my lines unfold as a result of the place, the environment, and the user it is intended for, resulting in volumes that fit and harmonize perfectly with its needs and operation.
Given the climate changes we have experienced in recent years, and considering that ours is a tropical country, what advice would you give us for improving architectural designs??
We all need to become more aware of climate-friendly buildings, nature-friendly buildings, and all the sustainable solutions that exist to help our planet.
