WHAT’S YOUR NAME?
Nicholas Barrera
WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO CHOOSE THE FIELD OF ARCHITECTURE?
Growing up I had the best of both worlds. My mom was a painter, and my dad is a businessman; this allowed me to learn and expand creatively and logically. From a very young age I was drawn into architecture because I felt it was the right combination of these two worlds (art and science), so when it was time to pursue a career, it was a no brainer architecture was the way to go.
WHAT TYPE OF WORK ARE YOU MOST INTERESTED IN?
As a young professional, I am still exploring different typologies. However, most recently, I have been interested in exploring hospitality and residential work.
WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGES SINCE OBTAINING YOUR ARCHITECTURE DEGREE?
Architecture is an ever-evolving practice. Obtaining an architecture degree is only the beginning of the journey.
WHAT DID YOU LIKE ABOUT ARCHITECTURE SCHOOL?
Architecture school was the perfect place to push the boundaries of what architecture can be. Even though many times during school you try to make things “real”, there is a sense of fantasy to every project that allows you to let your creativity go wild.
ANY CRITICISMS OF THE ARCHITECTURE EDUCATION EXPERIENCE?
Many times in school, the focus is only on the architecture practice, without realizing that many skills and knowledge are gained by learning from other fields. Expanding the opportunities for students to explore other industries in tandem with their architecture studies might be beneficial in the long run.
WHAT ARE YOUR PROFESSIONAL GOALS?
Create meaningful spaces. Whether at a firm or in my own practice, I would like to continue creating spaces that people feel a connection with.
WHO DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE ARCHITECTS?
This is a tough question. Many architects and spaces might offer different types of inspiration and opportunities. However, being Colombian, I have recently gravitated towards celebrating and learning from Latin American architects like: Marcio Kogan, Tatiana Bilbao, Manuel Cervantes, Pablo Perez Palacio, Rogelio Salmona.
Photo: Jorge Gardner
Photo: Kit Koon
Photo: Pichai Sodsai
Photo: Gwen King
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE BUILDING OR CITY?
Similar to the previous question, it is hard to pick only one building or city. Some of my all-time favorites are: the East Gallery by I.M Pei, Maison Hermes in Tokyo by Renzo Piano, and the Barcelona Pavilion by Mies Van der Rohe. On the other hand, I have been inspired by a recent trip to Japan, where I had the chance to visit cities like Osaka and Tokyo. Both are very interesting in terms of their systems, scale, and urban design.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO GET OUT OF YOUR AIA BROOKLYN CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP?
I would love to continue to expand my network and learn from other professionals.
