Garza Architects Founder Jesse Garza has pursued a life driven by curiosity. Over the course of a career spanning more than 40 years, Jesse’s inquisitive nature has led him to understand that learning uncovers purpose, and that purpose realizes the potential of architecture.

Jesse strives to intimately understand this purpose in every assignment. What is driving a client to pursue the project? Who will it serve? What are the client’s aspirations and vision? And how can the architecture act as a catalyst to bring together all of these elements together to ensure the project achieves its true potential?

Jesse believes that every project starts with a relationship. By nurturing these relationships and collaborating closely with clients, Jesse is able to use his curiosity and intuition to uncover the insights needed to create truly remarkable learning environments.

As Garza Architects’ leading creative force, Jesse draws design inspiration from the well-designed and thoughtfully crafted elements we experience daily. Whether they come from the worlds of architecture, art, industrial design, or technology, he uses these inspiration sources to create places perfectly suited to the people who live, work, or learn in them.

Rooted in the vibrant culture of San Antonio, Texas, Andrew Flores is an emerging designer impassioned by the interplay of art and structure. With a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from the University of Texas at San Antonio and a focus on high-efficiency and sustainable design for his Master’s, Andrew brings a distinct blend of innovation and reverence for his craft.

Just as every composition in jazz has its unique rhythm and flow, Andrew approaches architecture as a fusion of form and function, drawing inspiration from his proficiency in jazz drumset and piano. By merging the cadence of music with the solidity of design, he unlocks the potential for truly unique, sustainable learning environments.

Andrew’s ethos revolves around excellence, a deep affinity for the arts, and a steadfast work ethic. It’s these very qualities that make him an invaluable contributor to design diversity at Garza Architects.

Xavier Colon has always believed in listening carefully and working to help others achieve their goals. While these are outstanding qualities for anyone to have, it turns out they are particularly good for a project manager. They help Xavier to guide his fellow team members’ progress throughout the design process while he also encourages them toward excellence on every project.

Xavier joined Garza Architects in 2011 and has played an important role in completing some of the firm’s most significant projects. His commitment to “creating a better world, one building at a time” can be seen in projects such as the Pease Middle School Fine Arts addition and additions and renovations at Boone Elementary School.

Xavier earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio College of Architecture, Construction, and Planning and a master’s degree from Ball State University in Indiana.

Enrique Mendiola delivers the constantly evolving technological capabilities that Garza Architects needs to drive projects forward.

With a particular focus on using Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology to its fullest potential, Enrique works with the project team to create industry-leading design development and construction documentation.

Enrique’s expansive knowledge of construction systems and techniques allows him to clearly visualize what needs to be built, identify any potential issues, find opportunities to maximize project efficiency, and achieve the client’s overall goals.

Enrique also uses his creativity, 3D modeling capabilities, and broad technical skills to create documents that help team members and stakeholders understand the design at every phase of the project, from initial sketches through lifelike photorealistic renderings.