As we near our 40th anniversary, V Architecture is incredibly grateful for the support of the community, and in the month of May, we are celebrating 15 years under the V Architecture name. Originally Jiménez + Rodríguez Barceló, AIA, the firm has been responsible for amazing projects deeply embedded into the urban landscape in Puerto Rico, as well as other impressive projects overseas.
The original partnership between Ricardo Jiménez and José Rodríguez-Barceló was formed in 1980, three years after the duo met…and the rest is history. The ambitious design firm envisioned projects such as the Puerto Rico Industrial Development Corporation (FOMENTO), the design for the Citigroup Headquarters, and took on the restoration of the then Dupont Hotel after the disastrous fire. “We’ve seen our share of newsworthy events, and have seen almost 10 administrations come and go, but our firm continues to evolve thanks to our unwavering commitment to excellence in our work,” adds José Rodríguez Barceló. With a steady pace, the firm had become a strong market leader and beacon in planning and design. With incredible momentum, they were ready to welcome new blood and in 1999, now President Ilia Ríos joined the firm, infusing new energy and fresh perspective into the drawing boards.
Just four short years later, Ríos took the lead, and in 2013 J+RB was rebranded as V Architecture, PSC, inspired by their incredible VISION. With a widened scope and a wealth of projects under their belt, the company was reshaped as a vanguard design studio and was quickly regarded for their forward-thinking work and momentous projects. “I think this firm thrives immensely on the synergy between generations, as we have created a great culture where deep knowledge is matched by a fresh and progressive viewpoint. The result is great work done in perfect harmony by an awesome team,” explains Ilia Ríos.
In 2005, the long-awaited Puerto Rico Convention Center was inaugurated, bringing a world-class design project to the lush waterfront setting. The firm also made great strides in implementing strong principles of sustainability into their projects and between 2011 and 2015 were entrusted to spearhead the renovation and new construction of six vanguard educational spaces throughout the island, receiving multiple LEED® recognitions and setting a high bar in local design.
More recently, V Architecture joined forces with PRISA Group to create El Distrito, a stunning addition to the Puerto Rico Convention Center, comprised of entertainment venues and great spaces for the entire family, as well as the new AC Hotel in the Condado area working with Interlink, among other uber-chic hospitality ventures across the island.
With over 100 completed projects, new additions in the office and constant evolution at the firm, V Architecture continues at a steady pace for growth and its leadership is very excited for the future. As Ríos explains, “we will continue to work tirelessly to bring our clients and partners unmatched value, versatility, but above all, “vision.”