We had the good fortune of connecting with Jose Lopez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jose, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
This is great question. I started my practice by setting parameters. The first one being why do I do this? The second parameter what is my timeframe to test my business idea? The third, what would be my worst case scenario? Could I live with that scenario?

The “why do I do this,” was easy. I got into architecture because I wanted to impact our society and create beautiful and functional spaces for our communites. It is the most rewarding thing I could choose, I have been practicing architecture over 20 years now and this life-style is very enriching. I get to help people and do what I love.

In my second parameter, as part of a business plan, I allowed myself a 3 year. This is a short term period and it allowed me to get some metrics to be able to understand the market against my mission and vision. Thankfully, things are going very well. I am now over three years old as a company and going strong. Many things are learned thorough in the way and adapting is key.

My last parameter would be my “what if I fail”? If you reflect this question and think about the worst thing that could happen to you, and within this answer you think, I could live with that, or I can recover from that, then do it. The rewards of being an entrepreneur are out there, also the risks. There is no easy route and it is not for everyone. But remembering the purpose and remember why do I do this, makes this process so easy. It feels like I am almost not working but just helping people.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
When you eat a habanero pepper, you will most likely say: “Wow that’s hot!” Our architecture has the same effect. We are a creative architecture firm based in Raleigh, NC. We service the Triangle Area and specialize in modern high-end architecture. Custom & creative is our standard: Our architecture predicates simplicity and elicits excitement. Our process is collaborative, our methodology is pragmatic. This allows us to be extremely efficient and focus on designing something special and unique.

 

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am an architecture nerd, so I am always going to refer people to visit the best designs around the area. The Hunt library being one of them. I love taking people to the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh as well. The exhibition has a great collection of art, very small but intimate, the architecture is phenomenal and the park with its landscape and plazas are very well designed. If the couple has kids definitely the Museum of Life and Science in Durham is a must.

For drinks and food I frequent Whiskey Kitchen, I love the menu and the vibe.

 

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to thank a couple that has supported me since even before starting Habanero Architecture. The New Native Realty Team, Tim and Dani Devinney, I would not be here today without your support and love for my craft. We recently completed their house in Cary, the Z-house. This house was featured as part of the AIA Tour of Residential this year. The Z-House was our third project together, and I hope we get to do more. It feels special when you get repeat clients. That means that not only they align with your vision, but also they trust you and that is very important to me. Tim and Dani are expert realtors around the Triangle Area. Without a doubt, if you need a person to get you the home you need, this is your go-team. We get along very well because our businesses share the same values, which are client-focused oriented.

 

Website: habaneroarchitecture.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/habanero_architecture/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/habanero-architecture

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HabaneroArchitecture/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPSdQL0eNw719MCPEs3LQjQ

Image Credits
Courtesy of Joe Lopez, AIA, NCARB

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