Richard Martinez

Born and raised in Vegas, it confuses me that so many think it lacks a sense of culture. It's painful to know that my neighbors feel like they're living without an identity. Because of this, I felt a huge responsibility not only to add to the city, but to help define it. I believe (and now know) that Aptus shares this goal. As we huddle around our table discussing projects, exchanging our philosophies about the desert and its people, I feel like we are actually building something fit for Vegas. It's the coolest feeling in the world.

Architecture is something I've come to love and hate. The process can be grueling, but the result is always something to be incredibly proud of. This practice has gifted me a greater understanding of the world and an appreciation for it too.

I’ve learned to really appreciate the desert built environment over the years. There’s a lot of cool stuff in Arizona that catches my eye. There’s a warmth to the masonry and steel that represents my idea of a “happy” architecture.

At the gym or playing Destiny in my gym clothes.