VMDO Architects

Santiago constructed his architectural vision through his experiences and a deep understanding of the multiple realities and places to which he has been exposed. His approach resonates with the ability to critically interrogate the work produced in the architectural field and its power to shape the world as a common space for multiple societies and ecosystems. His architectural practice has been developed with a profound interest in the numerous environmental, social, political, and technological changes, where architecture acts as an agent to intertwine the unavoidable contemporary issues and its ability to operate in multiple fields. Along these lines, he has worked on numerous trans-scalar projects in Ecuador, Mexico, Italy, and the United States for over six years. He has had the opportunity to be involved with renowned architectural firms such as Jean Nouvel, MVRDV, SANAA, and has worked closely with Herzog & de Meuron.

Santiago has thoughtfully engaged in his academic path. He holds an M.S. AAD degree from Columbia University GSAPP, where he was awarded the Avery Scholarship, and has been part of multiple exhibitions where his work has been recognized worldwide. His first academic approach to architecture was at San Francisco de Quito University, where he was awarded the L.B. Alberti Scholarship, and multiple prizes, including the First Honorable Mention at the Bienal Panamericana de Arquitectura de Quito BAQ 2018. Santiago is the Co-Founder of Quechua Architecture Competitions Q.A.C., acknowledged as the first platform in South America for local architectural recognition. He has continued his education with multiple recognitions from the Politecnico Di Milano and YACademy, along with his interest in research and investigation of critical history and theoretical discussions of architecture. At VMDO, he aims to contribute his academic background and experience to a thoughtful and purposeful professional practice.