AD&Vision Eighteenth Edition - Fall | Winter 2023-2024

IN THIS ISSUE

IN THIS ISSUE

• AD&V® is the first Puerto Rican design firm to be a Certified B Corporation.

• AD&V® is the first Puerto Rican design firm to become a B Certified Corporation.

• Grand Opening of Emerald Vista Senior Residences in Caguas, Puerto Rico.

• Grand Opening of Emerald Vista Senior Residences in Caguas, Puerto Rico.

• Cristina Villalón is recognized as a 2023 USA SDG Pioneer for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises.

• Cristina Villalón is recognized as a 2023 USA SDG Pioneer for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises.

• AD&V® is recognized as a 2024 Top Impact Company by the Real Leaders Impact Awards.

• Two AD&V® team members were recognized among ENR Southeast’s T op Young Professinals.

• AD&V® is recognized as a 2024 Top Impact Company by the Real Leaders Impact Awards. Top Young Professionals.

FEATURED PUBLICATIONS

AD&V® IS THE FIRST PUERTO RICAN DESIGN FIRM TO BECOME A B CERTIFIED CORPORATION

We proudly announce that AD&V® is the first Puerto Rican design firm to achieve Certified B Corporation status. This prestigious certification places our firm as the third company island-wide to receive this honor, marking a significant milestone in the island’s corporate sector.

The B in B Corporation stands for “Benefit for all.” B Corps, or Benefit Corporations, are companies that meet high social and environmental performance standards, accountability, and transparency. This movement aims to change our economic system to positively impact all stakeholders — workers, communities, customers, and our planet. AD&V® joins two other Puerto Rican companies, Grupo Legal Acosta & Díaz and Palabrería, as pioneers in adopting this commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility in Puerto Rico.

This certification validates our firm commitment to conducting business with a triple bottom line: people, planet and profits. It assures our stakeholders that we adhere to rigorous social and environmental standards, making us more than a profit-driven company. We view it as a badge of honor, a testament to our dedication to ethical and sustainable practices, and a clear signal that we are a force for good in the business world.

Becoming a B Corp reflects our unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on our local and global communities. It’s not only a milestone for our firm but also a signal to other small businesses that transformation through environmentally conscious actions is possible. We hope to continue inspiring other businesses in Puerto Rico and beyond to join us on this journey toward sustainable and responsible business practices. We must move forward faster!

GRAND OPENING OF EMERALD VISTA SENIOR RESIDENCES

Last year, we celebrated the grand opening of Emerald Vista Senior Residences, a new standard of inclusive living for seniors. Combining modern amenities and sustainable design, this pioneering affordable senior housing community in the heart of Caguas redefines senior living.

Developed by McCormack Baron Companies, built by F&R Construction Group, Inc., and designed by AD&V®, the Senior Residences feature a five-story building with 200 apartment units, including 190 one-bedroom units, 10 two-bedroom units, and 30 units designed for accessibility. In addition, it encompasses community rooms and lounges, administrative offices, support spaces, and the Club de Oro, a senior daycare facility.

Our goal for this project was to create a space where seniors can enjoy a vibrant, inclusive, and active lifestyle by implementing sustainable, human-scale, and universal design principles. Now open, the Senior Residences at Emerald Vista invite seniors to experience a new standard of living that is dignified, safe, sustainable and has a strong sense of community.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

BALDWIN SCHOOL INNOVATION CENTER

Bayamón, Puerto Rico

CAGUAS MIX-USE & ELDERLY HOUSING

Caguas, Puerto Rico

ON THE DRAWING BOARD

AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMUNITY

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico

K-12 SCHOOL IN COROZAL

Corozal, Puerto Rico

RESORT COMMUNITY

TOWN CENTER IN WEST COAST, PR

Rico

HOTEL IN ORANJESTAD

K-12 SCHOOL IN LAS PIEDRAS

Las Piedras, Puerto Rico

STUDENT HOUSING MASTER PLAN

Tallahassee, FL

URBAN IMPROVEMENTS

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Aruba

Puerto Rico

West Coast, Puerto

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

In recent months, AD&V® has been featured in numerous publications including:

SPECIAL APPEARANCES

THE POWER OF INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN PUERTO

RICO’S

URBAN LANDSCAPE

Last year, our Co-Founder, Ricardo Álvarez-Díaz, had the opportunity to participate in various Speaking Engagements, where he shared his expertise and insight on diverse subjects. However, one topic resonated above the rest: the power of innovation and entrepreneurship in shaping Puerto Rico’s urban landscape.

Ricardo was invited as a guest speaker at the 50th Annual Puerto Rico Builders Association Convention, where he engaged in an insightful discussion with Tony Salazar, Principal of McCormack Baron Salazar, addressing the significant housing imbalance in Puerto Rico. Additionally, he appeared as a guest on the Urbital Podcast, where he had a one-on-one discussion with Giancarlo González, Urbital’s founder, exploring the relationship between bureaucratic institutionalism and urban development. Furthermore, Ricardo spoke at Puerto Rico ICON’s 2023 Conference, sharing his insights on the transformative impact of innovation and entrepreneurship on Puerto Rico’s urban environment. He also participated in a discussion with Jayson Ramos for an episode of Mentores en Línea, exploring the influence of public policy on community design, and joined Adriana Carrera for an episode of La Familia Broward, where they discussed housing trends in 2024.

During these engagements, Ricardo delved into the intricacies of urban repopulation in Puerto Rico, reflecting on past missteps, and stressing the importance of collective action among entrepreneurs in reshaping Puerto Rico’s Urban Landscape through the adoption of good urban design principles, learning to decline opportunities graciously, and collaborating with like-minded clients who share a vision for building inclusive communities rather than segregating them.

THE ROLE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES (SMES) IN PUERTO RICO

Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) are often overlooked despite their significant contributions to modern economies. With over 90% of businesses being SMEs worldwide, they are vital drivers of economic growth, job creation, and innovation. During her numerous speaking engagements last year, this was the main focus of our Co-Founder, Cristina Villalón.

Cristina participated in several events, including the AD&V® & Guayacán Workshop, Guayacán Venture Accelerator’s Info Session Class of 2024, AIAPR’s Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program’s Boot Camp, Food Hack’s inaugural event in San Juan, and at the UNA-USA PR. Her primary goal was to leverage her voice and experience to support Puerto Rico’s economic growth, specifically emphasizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the crucial role SMEs play in Puerto Rico.

Throughout these engagements, Cristina encouraged SMEs to envision the potential of business in effecting enduring positive change within their communities by integrating the SDGs into their corporate strategies. She sought to demystify the challenges and concerns that companies often face when considering SDG integration, providing practical examples, ideas, recommendations, and valuable resources to guide businesses in aligning with the SDGs.

AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

CRISTINA VILLALÓN WAS RECOGNIZED AS A 2023 USA SDG PIONEER FOR SMALL & MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES

Our Co-Founder, Cristina Villalón, was recognized by the United Nations Global Compact Network USA as the 2023 SDG Pioneer for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises.

Cristina was recognized for championing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and inspiring others to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. She was chosen from a network of more than 1,000 entities across the United States as a 2023 USA SDG Pioneer.

Her achievements in embedding the SDGs in her day-to-day work reimagine the potential of businesses in creating enduring positive change within their environments. This recognition inspires and proves that no company is too small to make a significant impact. We hope it inspires others to advance the SDGs in their own business practices.

Álvarez-Díaz & Villalón® was recognized with the Real Leaders Impact Award as one of the most impactoriented, growth-minded companies of 2024. The award recognizes over 100 companies globally that stood out for their commitment and awareness of their impact on employees, society, and the planet.

We were the only Puerto Rican company included on the list and obtained the 101st position among the 185 recognized. This highlights how our decisions, guided by our values, generate a positive impact on people and the world around us.

We are thrilled to be recognized as a Top Impact Company by Real Leaders alongside many leading impact-driven companies. Our mission to design Places of Purpose drives our growth and impact as we continue to create a society where individuals and communities are empowered to thrive.

TWO AD&V® TEAM MEMBERS WERE RECOGNIZED AMONG ENR SOUTHEAST’S 2024 TOP YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

AD&V® Associate Partner Estefanía Alejandro and Associate Carla Joan González were recognized as distinguished members of the 2024 Top Young Professionals by Engineering News-Record Southeast. This recognition establishes them as emerging leaders shaping our industry’s future. Selected from nearly 60 applicants, the 2024 class of Top Young Professionals encompasses professionals from diverse sectors throughout the Southeast, ranging from project managers to professors and spanning from Puerto Rico to North Carolina.

It is an honor that Carla Joan & Estefanía received this acknowledgment as women, proudly representing Puerto Rico and AD&V® in the traditionally maledominated realm of design and construction.

RICARDO ÁLVAREZ-DÍAZ RECEIVED THE “JUNTOS POR PUERTO RICO” AWARD BY THE PRBA

Our Co-Founder, Ricardo Álvarez-Díaz, was honored with the “Juntos Por Puerto Rico” award during the 2023 Puerto Rico Builders Association 50th Annual Convention.

This recognition is a testament to Ricardo’s steadfast commitment to the PRBA over the last 8 years. The beautifully crafted award, designed by the talented Puerto Rican sculptor Luis Torruella, stands as a symbol of appreciation for his dedicated service.

AD&V® WAS RECOGNIZED AS A TOP SENIOR LIVING FACILITY

ARCHITECTURE FIRM FOR 2023 (27/91) BY BD+C

AD&V® has been recognized as a Top Senior Living Facility Architecture Firm for 2023, ranking 27 out of 91 by Building Design+Construction. BD+C’s list ranks the nation’s largest senior living facility architecture and engineering firms.

This award highlights the commitment to meeting the distinct needs of senior living communities by designing spaces that enhance seniors’ living experience, prioritizing both functionality and their comfort and well-being.

HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE

With the arrival of the Christmas Season, we collaborated with the Holiday Toy Drive initiative of the Hogar Albergue de Niños de San Germán & Hogar Cuna San Cristóbal, where we collected Christmas gifts for children aged 0-12.

We urged our team members to join this initiative, which brings Christmas joy to these children, contributing a total of 14 donated gifts to this beautiful cause.

ELECTRONIC RECYCLING

At AD&V®, we use our office as a collection center for electronic waste recycling. We continued to invite our team members to gather all their unused tech devices for proper and responsible recycling. As a result of these efforts, we successfully recycled 372 pounds of electrical equipment. Additionally, AD&V® contributed $298.15 to cover the expenses incurred by the recycling company for picking up the materials, ensuring their proper and responsible disposal.

BEACH CLEANUP WITH PARA LA NATURALEZA

AD&V® joined forces with Para la Naturaleza to help preserve the beauty of the Punta Ballena beach in Guánica by clearing the beach of waste and debris. We believe that small actions can make a big difference, and every piece of trash removed is a way for us to contribute to a cleaner and safer environment. Through our amazing teamwork and collective effort, we were able to pick up a total of 621 pounds of waste and debris.

LLEGÓ, LLEGÓ, LLEGÓ LA NAVIDAD CASUAL DAY

We participated in the Fundación Hospital Pediátrico’s Llegó, Llegó, Llegó la Navidad Casual Day! We encouraged our team members to embrace the holiday season by purchasing the Foundation’s themed t-shirts and bringing their Christmas spirit. The shirt proceeds were donated to Fundación Hospital Pediátrico, which focuses on improving the quality of life of its patients and the entire community in Centro Médico.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

KEEP GROWING WITH AD&V[U]NIVERSITY

Last year, we maintained our tradition of hosting our AD&V® [U]niversity sessions, wherein every Friday, a team member takes center stage for a captivating 30-minute presentation on a topic of their choice. These sessions were educational and incredibly entertaining, providing a platform for our team members to share their passions and expertise. Throughout the year, we delved into many fascinating subjects, from architectural jewelry and culinary arts to diplomatic architecture, emerging hospitality trends, and the vibrant cultural celebrations of the Day of the Dead.

EMPOWERING PERSPECTIVES WITH AD&V[U] SPECIAL SERIES

Last year, we launched our guest speaker series featuring prominent Puerto Rican figures exclusively for our AD&V® team members.

For the first session, we invited the former governor of Puerto Rico, Sila M. Calderón. She spoke with our Co-Founder, Ricardo Álvarez-Díaz, about her latest memoir, Memorias, her challenges as a female leader, and the lessons learned.

This special series is one of the many exclusive benefits we offer our AD&V® team members. It’s a unique opportunity to enhance their personal and professional development.

AD&V®’S FALL/WINTER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Last year, we welcomed two interns through our AD&V® Internship Program. Anaís Morales and Andrea Hernández brought a wealth of talent and enthusiasm to our projects, demonstrating their skills in various activities, from sketching and designing to hands-on work in our state-of-the-art 3D printing Lab. Anaís and Andrea exhibited remarkable growth throughout our Internship Program, highlighting their dedication, adaptability, and eagerness to learn.

They both played key roles in supporting the AD&V® Team by contributing to creating 3D models that highlight the firm’s design projects. Their positive attitude and readiness to tackle challenges allowed them to integrate seamlessly with our team. We are immensely grateful for their dedication and hard work, and we extend our best wishes to them as they continue their journey in the field of design.

OFFICE CULTURE

AD&V®’S SPOOKY HAPPY HOUR!

At AD&V®, we take Halloween very seriously. Last year, the AD&V® team went all out to celebrate Halloween, showcasing their creativity with an array of spooktacular costumes.

We ended the day by hosting a Happy Hour, where we delighted with delicious Halloween treats and embraced the season’s spirit.

Anaís Morales Architecture Student

• Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico.

Andrea Hernández

• Environmental Design Student

• University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras.

AD&V® YOGA TEAM BUILDING

Last year, we hosted a team-building yoga session. From mastering tree poses to syncing up with sun salutations, we found our balance and immersed in the glow of unity.

Not only did we stretch our bodies, but we also stretched our bonds, making this session a rejuvenating blast for all!

AD&V®’S THANKSGIVING LUNCH & BABY SHOWER

We held a delicious Thanksgiving meal at our headquarters and expressed our gratitude to our exceptional AD&V® team. We also hosted a surprise baby shower for Sujeira, our Accounts & Permits Assistant, who’s expecting a daughter of her own, Amanda! The AD&V® family just keeps growing and glowing!

As we shared this special moment, we took a moment to express our deep gratitude for our remarkable team.

OUR CHO’S 2ND BIRTHDAY

The AD&V® Team came together to wish our beloved Chief Happiness Officer, M&M, or “Emi” as we fondly call her, a happy second birthday.

Emi’s presence fills our office with boundless laughter and love every day! Here’s to many more cuddles, belly rubs, and shared birthdays, as we continue to cherish Emi’s delightful companionship in our workplace.

AD&V® VISITS THE SUPREME COURT OF PUERTO RICO

In collaboration with the Fundación por la Arquitectura, the AD&V® Team had the incredible opportunity of visiting the Supreme Court of Puerto Rico alongside Architect José R. Coleman-Davis Pagán.

As we strolled through this historic landmark, our team immersed themselves in a captivating narrative encompassing the Supreme Court’s rich history, intricate design, meticulous construction, and architectural nuances.

OFFICE CULTURE

SECOND WORKING ON THE BUSINESS WEEK

We kicked off 2024 with a powerful start, hosting our second Working on the Business Week. Throughout the week, the AD&V® Team actively participated in a series of enriching work sessions and training workshops, covering everything from goal-setting to standards implementation.

It fills us with pride to witness the whole team fully immersed and empowered to work smarter, not harder.

AD&V®’S SECRET ELF GIFT EXCHANGE & CHRISTMAS PARTY

The AD&V® team gathered at the beautiful Hacienda 8A in Juncos, Puerto Rico, to celebrate our end-ofyear Christmas Party and Secret Elf Gift Exchange.

During the event, the AD&V® team talked about their respective Elf’s superpowers, while participating in the gift exchange. Afterward, we had our traditional holiday meal and then danced the night away. It was a delightful occasion filled with laughter and joy, uplifting our holiday spirits to new heights!

AD&V® AT THE RANGE!

We hosted our first AD&Ventures at Río Bayamón Golf Course, where the team took to the range for a day of fun golf.

This fantastic initiative was brought to life by our very own Design Staff and Render Specialist, José Luis. Amidst the swings and putts, José Luis shared his love for golf, sprinkling some pro tips and tricks to level up our golfing game.

VALENTINE’S DAY COFFEE BREAK

We celebrated the day of love and friendship at the office with a special Valentine’s Day coffee break.

The AD&V® Team embraced the Valentine’s Day spirit by rocking pink and red colors while enjoying a hot cup of coffee and a variety of tasty donuts from Duck Donuts that made our hearts (and stomachs) happy. Spread love and share joy, that’s the AD&V® Way!

AD&V® HOSTS AIAPR’S OPEN STUDIO NIGHT

AD&V® Hosted the first Young Architects Forum AIAPR event: Open Studio Nights. The Open Studio Nights aim to raise awareness about local design offices and their workspaces while strengthening the community of emerging young architects.

We were happy and honored to open our office doors to give insight into the architecture industry, our culture, projects, professional experience, and our Meta Lab and Maker Lab.

AD&V®’S 2ND FIELD DAY

We held our second AD&V® Field Day at Eco’s Sports Park. With Team Extraterrestrials facing off against Team Dragon Fireballs, we ignited the field with a competitive spirit, turning every challenge into a wild adventure.

From epic races to wild challenges, we transformed friendly rivalry into unforgettable memories that will go down in office history!