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INDUSTRY INSIDER
Yashar Yektajo
Architect
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Mexican-Iranian architect Yashar Yektajo made news for designing the stunning brutalist hotel Paradero in Mexico at age 25 via an online competition. Done in collaboration with architect Ruben Valdez, Yashar’s vision was to emphasize the dynamism of the place where the desert meets the ocean. Educated in Switzerland, Netherlands, and Japan, he shares experiences, career advice, and why Baja California Sur holds a special place in his heart.
What do you do, and how did you get here?
At the Academy of Architecture in Mendrisio, Switzerland, I had the opportunity to study and work with some of the best architects in the world — listening to their anecdotes and experiences allowed me to approach architecture in a very particular way, especially regarding my daily practice, relationships with co-workers and clients. Each project must be strictly challenged, regardless of location, scale, or budget. That’s why, in addition to technical knowledge, our profession requires creativity.
Why do you love your job?
Because in a short time, it allows me to create the products I envisioned. I can then witness how people interact with them.
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What excites you the most these days?
Discovering constructive systems and general practices of architecture firms depending on their geographical location. It is exciting to practice architecture in Mexico while discussing with friends and colleagues back in Switzerland and other parts of the world. You understand the pros and cons of different realities and cultural boundaries and how your product can benefit from such conditions.
Check out chef Ernesto Kut interview and guide to Todo Santos
You have been working on a number of projects in Baja California Sur, like Casa Melina in Todos Santos. What is so special about this area?
It is probably one of the most exciting places in the world, not only for its nature, food, and people, but Baja California Sur has a unique history with many different ecosystems. You can travel from forests to xerophyte deserts within minutes.
Our most recent project, Casa Melina in the historic center of Todos Santos, is a respectful restoration and extension of a big-format red brick villa originally belonging to a 19th-century landowner. Together with the client — Ernesto Kut, a very talented chef and hospitality entrepreneur —, we searched for a dialogue between new construction and restoration, something that wouldn’t disturb the essence of the property.
Check out our guide to the Best Hotels and Guest Houses in Baja California Sur
"Each project must be strictly challenged, regardless of location, scale, or budget. That’s why, in addition to technical knowledge, our profession requires creativity."
What advice would you give to someone starting their career today?
Develop the ability to integrate different specialists and interests in both your career and personal life, as it cultivates efficiency. Expanding your relationships outside your profession exposes you to more interesting projects and work environments.
What’s in your pipeline? Should we expect new hotel projects?
There’s a potential hotel coming, but right now, the priority is to deliver and complete our ongoing construction sites.
If you would like to change anything in your industry, what would it be?
I would eradicate conventions as much as possible. Today the accepted rules and practices of architecture can deeply restrict creativity. I think that hospitality architecture can benefit from some bold questioning regarding briefs, programs, and general requirements, enhancing the guests’ experience.
If you had the day off today, what would you be doing?
Sightseeing.
Check out our guide to the Best Hotels and Guest Houses in Baja California Sur
We pinned all the places on a super user-friendly map you can save directly to your devices and have the whole city at your fingertips.
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