ELS Architecture and Urban Design

Emilio Ponce

Designer

I grew up watching my mom and dad design and build our family’s home in the Bay Area. It was admirable to see the wooden anatomy of the place I call home. I enjoy spaces that spur memory and compassion. At ELS, I have the honor to bring this empathy in my designs for a brighter and more sustainable future.

(Left) View of the family room's framed walls. Plenty of light. (Right) My dad teaching me how to mud drywall.

education

UC Berkeley, B.A. Architecture with Minor in Sustainable Design

started at els

2017

favorite building

Vanna Venturi House for its quirkiness and complexity. Musée d’Orsay for its grandeur adaptation from station to museum. Fundação Ibere Camargo for its subtlety and poetic volumes.

favorite sport/physical activity

I love hiking Mission Peak, Little Yosemite, and the Dipsea Trail.

inspirations

Ronald Rael and Virginia San Fratello

spare time

I enjoy resting at brunch spots sipping on an Americano.

best vacation

My Grand Tour to the UK, France, and Italy in 2019! My favorite memory was getting lost on my way to Florence and I ended up in Bologna. Oops.

favorite movie(s)

Mirai, Tokyo Sonata, Harold & Maude, Blue Velvet