VANESSA SMITH TORRES
SAY IT LOUD - FLORIDA Exhibitor
Florida Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
Architecture is not just a day job for me. Outside the office, I work with aspiring architects from middle school age to college age. I love seeing the next generation of architects be inspired and see a place for themselves in the profession.
VANESSA SMITH TORRES
Bio:
The Great Designer Vanessa Smith Torres is a Puerto Rican-born architect based in Miami, Florida. Vanessa has worked on award-winning projects in various market sectors, from hospitality to education to healthcare. She specializes in design for building performance and wellness. Committed to building a more equitable profession, Vanessa has served on local NOMA and AIA chapter boards, leading initiatives to diversify the profession through Project Pipeline and Women in Architecture.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I joke that I have the brain of an engineer but the heart of an artist. Architecture was where I married the two. I have always been into making. The transformation from a sketch to a dress, object, or building is a magical process.
What do you do?
As a Project Architect, I dig deep into projects from design to construction, implementing resilient design strategies. I also volunteer and mentor, dedicating time to encourage other women and diverse designers in the profession
What excites you in the work you do?
Leveraging design to make a difference in the community. From the Ace that restored a historic building in downtown New Orleans, to a campus expansion project for St. Jude hospital, I am excited by projects that are more than a building.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
Architecture is not just a day job for me. Outside the office, I work with aspiring architects from middle school age to college age. I love seeing the next generation of architects be inspired and see a place for themselves in the profession.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
I founded SoFloNOMA's Project Pipeline program. The first year, we participated in a virtual regional camp with only one Florida Camper. Two years later, we had a sold out in person camp with a a waitlist! I am proud to see this program take off!
Featured Project Name:
Ace Hotel
Featured Project Location:
New Orleans
Featured Project Completion Date:
March 2016
Role in Featured Project:
Architect
Featured Project Description:
The Ace Hotel New Orleans is located in the historic Warehouse District. This mixed-use development centered around the renovation of an existing 9-story 1928 building. In addition to renovating the Art Deco building, the project included a 4-story addition which complements the original building, referencing it with hand-made brick masonry and cast stone cladding. The project is punctuated with elements that recall images of New Orleans, such as a carriageway, courtyard, and balcony gardens.
