When I think of an architect who has made an impact on my life in a personal way, I’d say that Carols Martinez definitely holds that title. He’s a genuine and talented person who is deeply dedicated to his craft, and his passion for innovation is evident in the projects he has designed throughout his career as an architect.

Carlos Martinez attended The Ohio State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree in 1982. He then went on to attend the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he graduated with a Master’s of Architecture in 1984. His professional career took off at Holabird & Root, and today, he’s been with the renowned architectural firm Gensler for over twenty years. Among his many accomplishments, he’s been inducted into the International Interior Design Association’s College of Fellows and he’s also a recipient of Gensler’s prestigious Don Brinkmann Award for design excellence.

Though he now works out of Gensler’s New York City office as Principal, Martinez honed his skills and spent his early career in Chicago, which is one of the best cities for budding architects. During his time in the Windy City, he also assumed the role of an adjunct professor at the Art Institute of Chicago, and he still maintains a passion for the place that helped launch his career.

When asked about his favorite building in the area, Martinez has said in an interview that “there are so many buildings I love in Chicago. And, I love each for different reasons. But ask me to take you around to show you the best, and you better bring your most comfortable shoes because we are going to be covering a lot of ground.”

For me, it’s very easy to see firsthand the projects Martinez has designed with his vision and expertise. He’s the architect behind Clayco’s headquarters in Chicago, and he’s created a really great environment for all of us to do what we do best. I also now call Carlos’ former Astor Street condo my home whenever I’m in Chicago, and it’s clear that his unparalleled design abilities translate to all kinds of amazing projects, from commercial to residential.