Today we’d like to introduce you to Paul Esteban.
Hi Paul, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hello! I’m a San Diego native, burrito expert, licensed architect, and humble ringleader of the architecture department of Starcon Industries.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I wouldn’t say there is anything smooth about a career in architecture, but as with most licensed professions, a career in architecture is both challenging and rewarding. The path to a degree is filled with sleepless nights, cuts from building models and weekly critique sessions. The licensure process requires documented years of experience in several fields of architecture, law and business practice; and this is followed by seven, 5-hour, licensing tests. At the end of the tunnel there is a shiny piece of paper and a whole lot of liability.
All criticism aside, it really is a rewarding experience and helps you see everything about life in a new light. The process exposes you to corners of design, art, life, history, and general perspective that you never thought about.
The great part about a career in architecture is that it offers a huge spectrum of creative paths. The hard thing about architecture is that the field offers a huge spectrum of creative paths. Finding the right niche was challenging but it was important to explore each avenue to fully understand which corner of architecture suited me.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Starcon Industries?
Starcon Industries is a vertically integrated development, architecture, and construction company specializing in mid-rise urban infill workforce housing projects. We are a scrappy group of young professionals pushing the boundaries of architectural practices, construction methods, and development processes.
Our latest flagship project, Niima Outpost, is a groundbreaking endeavor. Currently under construction in North Park, this is the first Mass timber hybrid residential project in San Diego. This project demonstrates our commitment to moving the mid-rise development industry forward. By utilizing carbon-negative materials, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also set a path for a more sustainable building practice. The exposed wood ceilings and surfaces in the design not only adds a unique touch but also provides a biophilic benefit, positively impacting the psychological well-being of the building’s occupants.
As an architectural and construction company, we are determined to progress continuously. Taking risks and embracing innovation are at the heart of our approach. By challenging conventional norms and constantly seeking better solutions, we strive to be trailblazers and inspire positive change within the construction and development sectors.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
In architecture, I’ve found the most pivotal lesson comes from embracing design from a holistic perspective. It’s easy to be seduced by architecture for its formal qualities and idealistic views, but the thing that sets an architect apart is understanding real-world challenges and the turning those challenges into design opportunities.
These challenges are typically overcome with a solid foundation of knowledge in practical construction methods to know how to safely and effectively push boundaries, an awareness of cost versus value (recognizing that cost and value are not synonymous), and a willingness to collaborate with various stakeholders, including other trades, public communities, and professional peers especially when their views are not aligned with yours.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Starconind.com
- E-mail: Paul@starconind.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulesteban/
