EA613: Marcos Santa Ana - Architecture After the California Wildfires

Architecture After the California Wildfires

In this episode, architect and contractor Marcos Santa Ana shares how his journey—from growing up in a family of artists in Woodstock, New York to launching a design-build firm in Los Angeles—shaped his philosophy on resilient, high-performance architecture. Drawing on his international education in Denmark, Spain, and the U.S., Marcos explains how cultural influences and feng shui principles inform the aesthetic and functional qualities of his work at Alloi. He reflects on launching his firm during an economic downturn and how becoming both a licensed architect and contractor allowed him to bridge the gap between design and construction.

The conversation dives into the impact of California wildfires on the built environment and how Marcos is helping redefine architecture in fire-prone areas. He details new fire protection systems, the challenges of rebuilding communities, and the evolution of high-performance design in response to climate realities. His certification from the Passive Haus Institute in Germany reinforces his technical approach to reducing energy loss while improving human comfort. Marcos emphasizes the importance of resilience, craftsmanship, and cross-disciplinary knowledge in modern architecture.

Beyond the drafting table, Marcos is also a seasoned mountaineer who draws inspiration from high-altitude climbs like Cotopaxi and Mount Eolus—adventures that mirror his passion for pushing personal and professional limits.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Architecture After the California Wildfires with Marcos Santa Ana.

Connect with Marcos online at www.alloi.us or find him on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

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