"Architecture is the incorruptible witness of history, because one cannot speak of a great building without recognizing in it the witness of an era, its culture, its society, its intentions…." Octavio Paz, Nobel Prize in Literature 1990.
SANTO DOMINGO.- The Dominican Republic celebrates today, November 3, the “Day of Dominican Architecture”, established in 1988 by decree 503, in honor of Guillermo González Sánchez, who designed the first modern building in Santo Domingo.
Architecture is part of the fine arts. Among its many definitions, the Arcux blog defines it as the art and science that studies the design of buildings and the method of construction. It is, as some authors describe it, the eyes and mind of a building .
This science was born in prehistory when the first men who left the caves to embrace a nomadic life were forced to build shelters.
Today, El Inmobiliario congratulates all the men and women of this beautiful profession, paying tribute through six renowned exponents who kindly shared their profound expressions and opinions on this important art.
Sonya Pérez (SP Arquitectura)
Architecture is the work itself, materialized under a framework of creativity that encompasses everything from the collective to the final project. From a very young age, I knew my passion was architecture; in fact, it is such a calling that I have spent over a decade teaching at various universities in our country, focusing on design and diligently fostering creativity. Practicing architecture is my daily vocation, fueled by my characteristic passion. Nations are the product of lines and guidelines based on urban concepts that range from the collective city to specific projects bearing the exclusive authorship of the architect.
Claudia Castillo (Top Real Estate)
Architecture was the career I always wanted to study. I chose it out of personal conviction, and I believe it was my best decision because it broadened my mind and perspective. It's a wonderful field that allows you to develop in different areas. At the National Housing Bank, I practiced architecture in the various positions I held, including project development, real estate appraisal, and business, offering my professional opinions and knowledge from both local and international experience. Currently, I don't practice as an architect in terms of design, but I do provide planning consulting, which has been incredibly helpful in my work as a real estate agent. This allows me to learn about projects, better guide my clients, and provide them with the necessary support and additional knowledge beyond what a broker typically offers.
Augusto Cortina (Cortina de Moya and Architects)
The architect is the only professional who can personalize structures for specific individuals, transforming standard spaces into unique, one-of-a-kind environments that stimulate the senses of those who will inhabit them and make them their own. The architect conceptualizes and then brings to life the aspirations of human beings, from the most specific details of each individual to the emotions that bring us satisfaction, well-being, and happiness—all translated into living spaces. We are currently practicing this profession. New generations must think outside the box; they face the arduous task of revising traditional concepts and adapting them to a changing world, to a society that demands new sensations and new tastes. They must let go of preconceptions and respond to the way contemporary individuals live their lives.
Yermys Peña (Construger architects and engineers)
My career is one of the cornerstones of my life; it's simply part of who I am. I feel I've transcended, achieving success not only as an architecture and construction professional but also as a leading woman in a predominantly male field. I would undoubtedly choose to study it again. From the beginning, I was driven by the desire to create beautiful and innovative buildings that were also functional. Through experience, I became increasingly aware of how architecture could influence people's lives, for better or for worse. The power we have to create conversations, evoke emotions, and bring happiness through spaces, while also influencing an entire community through how a building integrates with its surroundings, made me conscious of the responsibility each project represents. I don't design pretty houses, but homes—family spaces for connection and enriching experiences for a family. I don't design businesses, but collaborative spaces where work is dynamic and users enjoy their jobs while their productivity increases. Upon discovering that through sustainable and bioclimatic design and construction, I can bring positive changes to people, the city, and the planet, I decided that I had found my fundamental purpose as an architect.
Haydee Feliz Ortiz
For me, architecture is the art of creating emotions through spaces, forms, textures, and colors, thereby impacting people's lives through those same spaces, their functionality, and aesthetics. From a young age, I knew I wanted to be an architect. I would always imagine, when playing with my dolls, what their room would be like, its colors and spaces. I practice architecture and envision a future with a much more sustainable approach because the work and design of architects significantly impacts the environmental, social, and economic life of the city. In other words, sustainability in architecture will become a fundamental requirement in terms of regulations, design, landscaping, and even climate considerations. I see it as completely aligned with and integrated into the environment.
Mayra Pezzotti
Architecture is a blend of art and technique through which buildings are planned, designed, and constructed, some of which become true works of art. It encompasses many important aspects that modify the human habitat: the analysis of the needs of each project, the creativity to achieve a balance between aesthetic expression and the proper use and function of spaces, whether architectural or urban. Architecture is the art that provides the creative expression of the physical environment we inhabit and the surrounding environment. It reflects the identity of a particular nation, grounded in its history and culture.
We also emphasize compliance with current regulations, the use of appropriate materials, the resolution of problems that typically arise during construction, and the cost savings achieved through proper resource management from the project's inception, ensuring a high-quality result that adheres to the plan. I studied this profession out of genuine vocation. I practice it and hope to continue doing so for many years to come.
The most important contributions of architecture are:
Appropriate response to constant social, economic and legal changes.
Preservation of historical, architectural and urban heritage.
Respect for the environment
Contribution to building a better country.
