In this episode of the Designers and Builders Podcast, host Alyssa Olson sits down with Roberto J. Rovira, a remarkable professional whose career spans mechanical engineering, U.S. Navy service, and landscape architecture. Roberto's unconventional path from serving as a naval officer to becoming a leading voice in landscape design reveals how diverse experiences shape creative vision and innovative thinking.

Roberto shares the story behind one of his most celebrated projects, the Sky Lounge in Miami at Florida International University, a stunning fusion of art and engineering that demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform spaces and communities. His approach to landscape architecture goes beyond aesthetics. It's about observation, collaboration, and creating environments that bring people together while respecting the natural world.

Throughout the conversation, Roberto and Alyssa explore how his military background instilled discipline and precision that now informs his creative work, the role of travel in expanding a designer's perspective, and why he believes in the concept of "tabula rasa," approaching each project with fresh eyes and openness to discovery. Roberto also discusses his passion for teaching, mentoring the next generation of designers, and his innovative use of materials that push the boundaries of what's possible in landscape architecture.

Chapters:

00:01 Introduction and Background

00:30 From Engineering to Architecture

02:20 Naval Service and Design Philosophy

04:12 The Sky Lounge Project

07:24 Travel and Design Perspective

09:21 Teaching and Community Impact

12:26 Creative Processes and Observations

21:59 Innovative Projects and Materials

32:38 Design Education and Community

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction: covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

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You can connect with Roberto at:

http://www.robertorovira.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertorovira/