FEATURED PUBLICATIONS
CELEBRATING SUCCESS: AD&V® IS HONORED AS A BEST PLACE TO WORK BY INC. MAGAZINE IN 2024!
We’re excited to share that AD&V® has been named a Best Place to Work by Inc Magazine in 2024!
This prestigious recognition by Inc. Magazine is the result of a meticulous evaluation of American companies renowned for their outstanding workplaces and vibrant company cultures. Among 543 nominated companies, each was rigorously assessed through an extensive employee survey, evaluating management effectiveness, benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and overall company culture
We are grateful for our dedicated team members, whose invaluable contributions, enthusiasm, and commitment have made this achievement possible This accolade validates our ongoing commitment to cultivating a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic work environment while underscoring our belief in the power of teamwork and mutual respect.
As we celebrate this honor, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed Together, we will continue to foster an environment where innovation thrives, careers flourish, and every individual can achieve their maximum potential
FROM METRICS TO MILESTONES: AD&V® PUBLISHES ITS 2023 IMPACT REPORT
We are excited to present our 2023 Impact Report for the third consecutive year This year, we dived into the compelling stories and data that illustrate the profound ripple effects of our actions We set ambitious sustainability goals, accelerated the integration of the SDGs into our core business, and aimed to inspire other companies to follow suit
Our report reflects our commitment to the 2030 Agenda and our role within the global community. It showcases our tangible achievements as an organization and as individuals and highlights our shared responsibility to shaping a better future
We spotlight our team's efforts across various areas including Professional Development, Health & Wellness, Team Alignment, Becoming a Best Place to Work, Making a Difference, Communication, Marketing, Business Innovation, Aligning with the Global Agenda, Recognitions, AD&V® Way Processes, Our Work, and Our Impact Efforts
Our Impact Report demonstrates how AD&V® leverages its business as a force for good, accelerating the integration of the SDGs into our operations to encourage others to do the same As we move into 2024, we express our deep gratitude to our team, partners, and community Together, we can continue to build a more sustainable, equitable, and beautiful world
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
BALDWIN SCHOOL OF PUERTO RICO INNOVATION CENTER
Bayamón, Puerto Rico
CAGUAS MIXED-USE & ELDERLY HOUSING
Caguas, Puerto Rico
ON THE DRAWING BOARD
WATERFRONT PLAZA
San Juan, Puerto Rico
CONDADO TOWNHOUSES
URBAN HOTEL
San Juan, Puerto Rico
NEW VILLAGE
Puerto Rico
AFFORDABLE COMMUNITY
Ponce, Puerto Rico
WELLNESS COMMUNITY
Puerto Rico
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
In recent months, AD&V® has been featured in numerous publications including:
WHAT’S NEW?
TRANSFORMING URBAN VISIONS: THE LAUNCH OF OUR 3D-PRINTED CITYSCAPES
AD&V® TAKES TIKTOK!
AD&V® is now on TikTok! Follow us @advfirm as we take you on a journey into our world of architecture and our commitment to creating Places of Purpose
Our TikTok account offers a behind-the-scenes look at our projects, our brand’s mission and vision, and the innovative spirit that drives us
Discover how we’re shaping spaces with a fresh perspective and be inspired by the stories and creativity that make our work unique. Let’s connect and explore the future of architecture together!
We’re excited to introduce our 3D-printed cityscapes that capture the essence of Puerto Rico’s most vibrant areas! From the lively, urban energy of Santurce to the deeprooted historical richness of Ponce, the vibrant cultural charm of Río Piedras, to the timeless beauty of Old San Juan, these models bring Puerto Rico’s unique spirit to life in exceptional detail Each cityscape invites you to explore the architectural diversity, community spaces, and stories that define these beloved areas
Each model is expertly crafted at our AD&V® Maker's Lab by our talented staff, using PLA and encased in sleek acrylic Measuring 9x9x175 inches, these unique cityscapes are available for purchase on our website and can be picked up in person or shipped directly to you
Order now to bring a piece of Puerto Rico’s vibrant spirit into your home
SPECIAL APPEARANCES
HOW FEMALE LEADERSHIP & INNOVATIVE DESIGN ARE DRIVING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Cristina Villalón, Co-Founder & CEO of AD&V®, has been a prominent voice in numerous high-profile events this season, advocating for female leadership and innovative design as drivers of sustainable development and corporate responsibility
In an Instagram Live with Adriana Carrera of La Familia de Broward, Cristina discussed the benefits of women-led businesses in fostering creativity and inclusivity, highlighting how female leadership cultivates a more diverse and collaborative work environment Additionally, during an episode of the Urbital Podcast with Giancarlo González, she explored the future of housing in Puerto Rico, the challenges surrounding the Normandie building, successful affordable housing models, and the functionality of architecture and design
Cristina also participated in a Modo de Vida panel, where she talked about the evolving world of interior design She then attended the UN Global Compact Network USA event in New York, where she emphasized the responsibility of businesses to support human rights through frameworks that address critical social and environmental issues
Through these diverse engagements, Cristina Villalón continues to embody the vital connection between female leadership, innovation in design, and corporate responsibility, demonstrating how these are essential to shaping a more sustainable and equitable future for communities and the built environment
REIMAGINING ARCHITECTURE AS A PLATFORM FOR SOCIAL GOOD
This season, our Co-Founder, Ricardo Álvarez-Díaz, participated in various speaking engagements, where his insights on reimagining architecture as a platform for social good took center stage. He emphasized the critical role of community engagement and innovative design in shaping a better future.
Ricardo, a strong advocate for putting people first, was recently featured in a Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program 2023-2024 case study, where he showcased how prioritizing good design enhances community engagement and how AD&V®’s people-centric approach is embedded in its business practices, driving meaningful social impact
Alongside his wife, Cristina Villalón, they participated in the Business That Matters podcast, where they shared their values-driven approach to architecture and design, their journey as business partners and a married couple, and their dedication to creating purpose-driven spaces They highlighted how “good design creates intuitive harmony where everything just feels right, while bad design fails to achieve this effortless comfort and functionality”
Lastly, Ricardo spoke at a CKLDP-Miami session, sharing insights on the importance of fostering positive internal practices that drive meaningful change from within.Through these engagements, Ricardo Álvarez-Díaz highlighted how community-focused design, innovative architecture, and fostering positive business practices can collectively drive social good, shaping a more purposeful and sustainable future
ANDELANI PRESS’ SUCCESSFUL BOOK LAUNCH OF SURVIVING MARVELS OF A STATELY CITY SPECIAL APPEARANCES
Andelani Press is a Puerto Rican publishing company led by Ricardo Álvarez-Díaz, Cristina Villalón & Carla Joan González of AD&V® It is dedicated to providing authors with a platform to educate while retaining their copyright The company specializes in publishing books on art, design, planning, and entrepreneurship Both AD&V® and Andelani Press are committed to making a positive impact
Andelani Press proudly announced the successful launch of its latest publication, Surviving Marvels of a Stately City. Authored by Jaime Yordán-Frau and photographed by Isabel Ferré-Sadurní, this bilingual book celebrates the rich history of Ponce through stunning photographic compositions It honors the city’s architectural heritage and stresses the urgent need for its preservation The book features a poignant introduction by Ricardo Álvarez-Díaz, co-founder of AD&V®, adding a personal touch from a respected figure in the architectural community
The official launch took place at the Museo Castillo Serrallés in Ponce, Puerto Rico, where an insightful panel led by Ricardo Álvarez-Díaz featured the book’s author, Jaime Yordán-Frau; photographer Isabel Ferré-Sadurní; and architect Magda Bardina They discussed the creative process behind the book and its significance for Ponce’s historical and cultural landscape
A second launch event took place in San Juan in collaboration with the Fundación por la Arquitectura to celebrate Heritage Week at the CAAPPR annex building During this event, Jaime Yordán-Frau and Isabel Ferré-Sadurní engaged in a stimulating panel with architects Alexandra Betancourt and Victor Nieto Together, they delved into the architectural, artistic, and cultural facets depicted in the book, offering a rich exploration of its themes and significance.
The events were skillfully moderated by architect Natasha Yordán and included remarks from Andelani Press President, Carla Joan González Proceeds from the sale of Surviving Marvels of a Stately City will support El Nodo, a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring historic structures in Ponce damaged by the 2020 earthquakes and Hurricanes Irma and María Visit Andelani Press’s website at wwwandelanipresscom to get your copy of Surviving Marvels of a Stately City today.
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
AD&V® IS RECOGNIZED AMONG THE 2024 TOP 300 ARCHITECTURE FIRMS IN THE UNITED STATES BY ARCHITECTURAL RECORD
AD&V® is honored to be listed in Architectural Record's Top 300 US Architecture Firms of 2024
Architectural Record, a leading publication in architecture, engineering, and design, is known for its in-depth coverage of innovative and influential projects around the world
This recognition reinforces our mission to design Places of Purpose by creating spaces that positively impact people's lives We extend our deepest thanks to our talented team and loyal clients for making this achievement possible as we continue our journey of designing spaces that inspire and transform
AD&V® WAS RECOGNIZED WITH A 2024 HIGH PERFORMER PROJECT MANAGEMENT AWARD BY MONOGRAPH
We are thrilled to announce that AD&V® has been distinguished with Monograph's 2024 Best of Project Management Award in recognition of our exceptional performance across several key business metrics!
The award celebrates firms that demonstrate extraordinary performance in managing resources, time, and budgets effectively, ensuring successful project outcomes
This achievement underlines our dedication to delivering outstanding results while maintaining sustainable and responsible business practices
We look forward to continuing our commitment to ensuring that each project we undertake contributes to the betterment of our clients and communities alike.
CONNECTING COMMUNITIES: BRIDGES TO COMMUNITY AD&V®
VOLUNTEER
TRIP
This year, AD&V® proudly sponsored three dedicated team members Chelsea, Laurie, and Andrés to volunteer with Bridges to Community, Inc. in Gajo Largo, Dominican Republic, from March 24-31, 2024.
During this transformative week, the AD&V® team worked tirelessly to build a secure and dignified home for the Jiménez-Ramírez family in this remote agrarian community of approximately 1,500 people The area, which is in dire need of improved housing, saw a profound change thanks to their efforts From laying bricks to painting walls, their dedication and compassion have made a significant impact on the lives of Carlos, Leidy, and Alondra
We are incredibly proud of their hard work and deeply grateful for the support and donations that made this project possible With the help of our community, they have built not just a home, but a brighter future for this deserving family
RTH DAY CAMPAIGN: GREEN
ebration of Earth Month, we continued our tment to sustainable fashion by expanding on last itiative’s success We continued to collect gently lothing and accessories from the AD&V® team, rmed these preloved items into a dynamic thrift and hosted an office clothes swap, allowing our o refresh their wardrobes while extending the life of arment
d an office fashion show featuring our AD&V Green runway, where team members proudly displayed tylish finds from the swap, showcasing creativity stainable fashion The positive response inspired us p the thrift shop running year-round, with any ted items being donated to a local charity
We hope this effort inspires others to walk the #ADVGreenCarpet adopting sustainable consumption practices, reducing textile waste, and recycling responsibly
FORCES WITH CRES TO
this year’s Earth Day, the AD&V® team, alongside nds and family, joined forces with CRES (Coalición para Restauración de los Ecosistemas Santurcinos) to plant es in El Bosque Costero in Punta Las Marías. This iative supports CRES’ vital mission to reforest and tect Puerto Rico’s urban coastal forests
gether, we planted 140 trees, each one symbolizing a werful commitment to a greener, more sustainable ure.
s collective effort contributes to our responsibility of italizing our environment and ensuring a healthier, thriving community for generations to come
O RICO'S LAW 51 OF 2022
Puerto Ricos Law 51 of 2022 This important legislation bans the use and sale of single-use plastics, including cutlery, straws, cups, and foam food containers.
Law 51 of 2022 marks a significant achievement in our ongoing mission towards a more sustainable future Our previous campaigns, such as “¿Cuál es el Foam?” which encouraged the shift from foam to compostable containers, and “Sin Sorbeto Por Favor,” which inspired the public to forego straws, have laid the groundwork for this new initiative These campaigns have helped to highlight the benefits of reducing single-use plastics and emphasized the importance of protecting our planet
By supporting and promoting this law, we aim to further educate the public about the dangers of single-use plastics and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable environment for all
SPECIAL SERIES
A CONVERSATION WITH A CHAMP: MÓNICA PUIG JOINS US FOR AN AD&V[U] SPECIAL SERIES
This year, we proudly hosted our second guest at our AD&V[U] Special Series, an exclusive event designed to connect our team members with prominent Puerto Rican figures
For this session, we were thrilled to welcome Mónica Puig, former tennis champion and Puerto Rico’s first-ever Olympic gold medalist! During this special session, our Co-Founder, Ricardo Álvarez-Díaz, conducted an engaging interview with Mónica, where she shared insights with the AD&V® team about her remarkable tennis career, her current endeavors as a broadcaster, the unwavering support of her family, and the challenges and rewards of being a professional female athlete
Ricardo also spoke with Mónica's husband, Nathan Rakitt, on his perspective regarding the prevalent gender bias in the sports broadcasting industry Some of the key takeaways from their conversation included the challenges women face in gaining equal opportunities in the industry, the need for more diverse representation in broadcasting roles, and the importance of addressing gender bias in sports media.
The AD&V[U] Special Series is one of the many exclusive benefits we provide our AD&V® team members, offering invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth through enriching conversations with distinguished guests
KEEP GROWING WITH AD&V[U]NIVERSITY
At AD&V®, if we’re not learning, we’re not growing We are dedicated to continually educating our team and keeping them informed about modern developments and our daily operations This season, our AD&V [U] sessions covered everything from internal philosophy, and economic liberty to our R&D advancements.
Co-Founder Ricardo Álvarez-Díaz kicked things off by offering an AD&V[U] session, where he explained the design philosophy behind the Baldwin School Innovation Center, a cutting-edge hub for creativity and collaboration currently u Founder and Managing Principal of the Instituto de Libertad E hts on Puerto Rico’s limited economic freedoms and the c &V®’s Action Hub Executive Director, Rafael Vargas, provided a ents, detailing the latest technical innovations and processes w r. These AD&V [U] sessions exemplify our commitment to c innovative design, economic insights, and cutting-edge a
PROJECTS POST-MORTEMS
AD&V® has Post-Mortem meetings after a project is completed to review its successes, challenges, and lessons learned for future improvements This season, we offered our team two insightful Post-Mortem sessions on our recent projects Gina Tormos, Project Manager, reviewed the Emerald Vista mixed-use and mixed-income housing project in Caguas, Puerto Rico Emerald Vista is a 21-acre development of multifamily and elderly housing units that provides the community with safe, connected, and quality living Gina’s Post-Mortem takeaways provided strategies for improving future projects and delivering impactful and sustainable housing solutions
In addition, Antonio Gárate, a valued partner and developer, shared learnings from multifamily projects His insights provided valuable perspectives that will help shape future developments and strengthen collaboration with developers. These sessions emphasized the importance of strong architect-developer relationships and the impact of mixed-income, multifamily projects on the island They provided our team with a deeper understanding of the design process, decision-making, and areas for improvement in future projects
WELCOMING THE BRIGHT MINDS OF TOMORROW:
AD&V®'S NEW SEMESTER INTERNS
This summer, we welcomed an exceptional group of interns: Diego, Daniela, and Vera, each bringing their enthusiasm, creativity, and eagerness to learn. We also welcomed Patricia and Carmen as semester interns. They joined our Maker Lab, where they played a key role in creating detailed 3D models of our designs, gaining firsthand experience in architectural technology, and contributing significantly to our projects
Throughout their time with us, our AD&VIP’s gained invaluable hands-on experience, forged meaningful collaborations, and acquired new skills They played a key role in our projects, providing fresh perspectives and contributing to our design initiatives.
Washington
rt of their journey and look forward to seeing the incredible impact they will
DANIELA MORERA Architectur S d f
VERA LEÓN A hi S d f the
DIEGO DALECCIO Architecture Student from the University of Puerto Rico.
CARMEN DEL CID Architecture Student from the University of Puerto Rico
PATRICIA SANABRIA Architecture Student from the University of Puerto Rico
OFFICE CULTURE
SUNRISE YOGA
Let the AD&Ventures continue! This season, a team member led the way with Sunrise Yoga at the Laguna de Condado.
A Group of AD&V® team members gathered to embrace the morning with stretches and sunshine, turning our daybreak into a blissful “rise and shine” adventure
MAY THE 4TH & 5 DE MAYO CELEBRATION
At AD&V®, May the 4th and Cinco de Mayo are recognized as national holidays From lightsabers to chips and salsa, it was a celebration that blended the best of both worlds!
AD&V® YEARS OF SERVICE CELEBRATION
This year, we proudly recognize four of our exceptional team members for their outstanding years of service Ariela Rivera, our Social Media Manager, has dedicated 5 years of creative excellence to our team Juan Carlos Ramos, our Design Staff & Render Specialist, has also contributed 5 years of innovative design and impactful renderings We celebrate Cristina Villalón, our Co-Founder, CEO, and Director of Interior Design, for 13 visionary years of leadership and inspiration And, with immense appreciation, we honor Jocelyn Torres for 20 years of dedicated service as our Permit Specialist, IT & Security Manager, and Associate.
Each AD&Versary not only marks a personal milestone but also strengthens our collective journey and commitment to excellence Here’s to many more years of success and inspiration!
OFFICE CULTURE
AD&V®’S GRADUATING CK CLASS OF 2023-2024
Congratulations to the second graduating c Puerto Rico, Inc CKLDP class of 2023-2024 outstanding members of our team, José Cristina Centeno, and Juan Carlos Ramos, f this group of professionals who courageo beyond their comfort zones to evolve as in Their accomplishments are a reflection of success, and we take immense pride in the d commitment they’ve exhibited in their pr personal growth
This initiative is more than just a program, it transformation, empowering emerging a the skills, and vision to shape our future W our heartfelt thanks to Natasha Yord Alejandro, and Lara Ibarra for their commitment and mentorship, guiding th leaders with passion and expertise.
A HEARTFELT MOTHER'S DAY BREAKFAST
This Mother’s Day, we gathered for a special breakfast to honor our AD&V® moms and their remarkable contributions
We celebrated their dedication with thoughtful gifts and heartfelt appreciation. It was a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge their hard work and the incredible balance they maintain between their professional and personal lives The morning was filled with gratitude and joy as we expressed our thanks for all that they do
CHEERS TO SUMMER FRIDAYS!
Summer has arrived, and with it, our much-anticipated Summer Fridays! We launched the season with a refreshing happy hour, complete with beach-inspired ambiance and chilled beverages Best of all, our team enjoys an early wrap-up at 3 PM every Friday, allowing for extended time to enjoy the summer
FATHER'S DAY PIRAGUA CELEBRATION
This year, we celebrated our AD&V® dads on Father's Day with a refreshing afternoon celebration featuring a delightful array of piraguas Crema, Parcha, Frambuesa, Coco, Tamarindo, and more
We commended the awesome fathers at AD&V® for balancing work and fatherhood with grace and dedication, and are proud to have such dedicated fathers as part of our AD&V® family
CELEBRATING NATIONAL WOMEN'S EQUALITY DAY
On August 26th, the AD&V® team proudly wore white in solidarity, honoring the trailblazing women who have paved the way for equality in celebration of #NationalWomensEqualityDay
We reaffirm our commitment to fostering a workplace and a world where equality, diversity, and progress thrive in the workplace and beyond. When we uplift one another, we all rise together
SITE VISIT AT THE BALDWIN SCHOOL OF PR INNOVATION CENTER
Our team recently visited the Baldwin School of Puerto Rico Innovation Center, a 16,800-square-foot, LEEDcertified building designed as a hub for creativity and collaboration, currently under construction
The space boasts a first-floor Makers Space, science labs, and a fabrication shop, while the second floor features a Media Center with versatile classrooms. Each element is meticulously designed to inspire critical thinking and complex problem-solving We’re excited to see this vision come to life!
