Puerto Rico-based architecture firm heads to Coral Gables

Alvarez Diaz & Villalón, a San Juan, Puerto Rico-based architecture and interior design practice, said Tuesday that it is has opened its first office in Florida, in Coral Gables.

The expansion is geared to enhance its business in South Florida, where it has a long history of working with clients and consultants, the firm said.

Most importantly, AD&V said its new 1,800-square-foot office, at 2100 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, will enable the firm to better service its growing client base across the United States, Latin America, and the Middle East.

“We’re excited to continue building our presence in South Florida,” said Ricardo Alvarez-Diaz, principal of AD&V, in a statement. “Our top priority has always been to exceed the needs of our clients. This expansion allows us to more effectively respond to the increase in demand for our services in Florida and Latin America.”

The firm’s expansion into South Florida will focus on residential and retail design services under the leadership of AD&V partner and interior designer Cristina Villalón, the firm said. Alvarez-Diaz and Villalón, a married couple, will travel between their two offices. 

AD&V’s most recent Florida projects include two locations for the Puerto Rico clothing chain, Valija at Miami International Mall and in Pembroke Pines.

Founded in 2001, AD&V until now has only had its San Juan office, which it said is the first architecture and interior design office in Latin America to have achieved LEED Platinum certification. — Ina Cordle