Diego is an Argentinian Architect who graduated from the University of Buenos Aires. During his studies, he designed houses, schools, public museums, and sports centres. He worked as an Architect’s assistant for a local studio for four years. He developed several projects there, from bars and hotels to residential buildings, where he gained most of his experience.
Following his degree, Diego took software education courses, and he is proficient in CAD software such as BricsCAD, AutoCAD, Sketchup, TwinMotion, and Photoshop. He has quickly mastered New Zealand construction techniques and weathertight detailing, providing imaginative concept designs and high-quality detailing.
Diego lived in New Zealand for a year on a one-year working visa, where he started working for Reveal Building Consultants, Barefoot Architectures’ parent company. He returned to Argentina whilst his partner completed her graphic design degree and worked remotely full-time. The couple returned to New Zealand in 2023, and Diego is the leader of Barefoot’s design team, which is growing every year. Why New Zealand? Firstly, they loved the lifestyle and being close to nature, especially the beaches (even in winter, but not in the water!).
At Barefoot, Diego conceptualised, and his team designed a passive house in Mt Eden. The house is on land where the client has their own home on the front lot and subdivided and built their new home on the back lot. Diego’s favourite part of the project was talking with the client and creating the first sketches.
It all starts by giving the client homework—what they like, including design styles, materials, shapes, etc. Then, the concept design starts, and nearly every client will say, “That’s just what we’re looking for.” Diego then adjusts the details, such as room sizes, adding a scullery or additional bathroom, etc.
“That’s my goal: for the client to like it. It might not be usual for many architects, but I want them to be happy and for it to be nice architecture. Most architects just create something pretty. The difference to me is the client’s happiness in their home.”
Diego describes a house in Buenos Aires called ‘The Curutchet House’, designed by the famous architect Le Corbusier and commissioned by Dr. Pedro Domingo Curutchet in 1948. The house incorporates a ramp, a spiral staircase, and a tree inside.
But after just one year, the doctor had to sell the house because he wasn’t happy living there. That’s when Diego learned the value of making the client happy.
To talk with Diego about your ideas, you can email [email protected] or phone 09 281 9398.
