agddg - Alan Gonzalez Architect, Austin, TX

agddg.com about page:

Alan Gonzalez - AG design / development group

I think it only fair to recognize my influences, thus introducing a bit about myself; where ‘I come from’, ‘where I create’, ‘what I create’ & my perception of the world around me.

My father, Raul Gonzalez, a modernist & humanitarian is one of the greatest influences, along w/my two elder brothers, Erik & Jair who are also most influential in my development as a designer. My father introduced to me many amazing things & people throughout my life & education (I graduated U.T. ARCHITECTURE, ’02). One of my father’s greatest influences is Luis Barragan (the Mexican god of Architecture, most notable project ‘Jardines de Pedregal, Mexico City').

I have adopted the mindset of my father, Luis as well as other international architects, especially those from the Japanese Modern era, where it is evident that the Japanese have mastered the art of less is more, a theory that I hold strong to my heart.

In 1985 my homeland, Mexico City was devastated w/an 5.8 earthquake. This catastrophe became one of my greatest challenges w/the work I do today. This natural disaster made me think about ‘what is an environmentally safe foundation’ & ‘what makes foundations become an enhancement to the earth’, thus bringing us into ‘Green Building’, what should be a worldwide concern. One has to become responsible for ‘what they create’, ‘where they create’, & ‘how they create’ (from materials used to how one treats their labor force to bringing the projects in under budget & on time).

In the unfortunate climate of the world today, natural & mortal disasters (i.e. albeit 1999 Jasper, Texas tornados, the 2005 Tsunami or war torn zones around the world), a safe domain is key for any foundation & family. In my line of work the word ‘foundation’ becomes passion & a poignant practice (see Austin Magazine, Sept/Oct 2006 “A Strong Foundation”). I have been blessed w/my family, friends & teachers, to help me see the world through caring eyes. In my life ‘Green Building’ has become synonymous with AG design / development group.

AG design / development group is a design+architecture+construction firm, w/ the clear understanding of what makes a house a home. We specialize in the design of environmentally friendly homes & professional establishments; details, concepts & theories are crucial & consequential. We do understand the delicate nature of positive growth & gentrification.

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