A. Alberto Lugo, originally from Eastchester, NY, has become a prominent figure in Southern California's architectural scene since founding Framing Futures Architectural Firm (FFAF) in 2019. As the CEO and Founder, Lugo combines leadership with creative vision, guiding the firm's diverse projects. His hands-on approach ensures that FFAF stays at the forefront of architectural design, especially in the development of commercial and public buildings. Lugo collaborates closely with his executive team to cultivate an environment that attracts and nurtures top architectural talent, all dedicated to advancing the field of modern architectural engineering. Despite his influence in Southern California, Lugo's roots in Eastchester, remain a vital part of his journey.
Before establishing FFAF, he spent a decade mastering his craft as a Senior Architect at several leading architectural firms, such as Parkins and Rhodon in New York and Fentrell Architects in San Francisco. Significant project leadership and strategic design contributions marked his role in these organizations. His earlier professional stages include a tenure as a Senior Architectural Design Strategist at Macaby and Roy and pivotal experiences at his father's firm in Albany, NY. His background is further enriched by his early career in business consultancy in New York City, providing a comprehensive perspective on the intersection of business and architecture.
His academic journey started with a Bachelor of Business from the University of Pennsylvania. However, his true calling in architecture led him to pursue a Master of Architecture from Cornell University, where he graduated with distinction. His academic pursuit continued; he delved further into Building Science and Technology and Environmental Systems. In 2003, he returned to Cornell to enhance his skills in environmentally-conscious building and design, showcasing his dedication to sustainable architectural practices.
Over twenty years, he has been instrumental in various notable architectural projects. His collaboration with the San Francisco Historic Buildings Committee in 2012 to renovate public spaces highlights his skill in integrating functional and aesthetic design. In 2015, he crafted a sustainable structure for the Hagman's Group of NYC, reflecting his commitment to eco-friendly building practices. His time at Parkins and Rhodon was distinguished by his leadership in designing a major shopping center and involvement in projects like a multi-story house of worship and affordable housing initiatives.
In the past decade, his focus has increasingly turned towards sustainable architectural design, marrying environmental protection with architectural innovation. He has become a prominent advocate for environmentally conscious building designs, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural habitats and incorporating sustainability into architectural projects.
He is a leader in his field and a committed philanthropist, offering pro-bono services to entities like Habitat for Humanity. In 2015, he founded the Architecture and Earth Awareness Foundation, which advocates for green building practices globally. This foundation has positively influenced over 400 building projects, highlighting his commitment to promoting sustainable architecture worldwide.
A. Alberto Lugo, hailing from Eastchester, has made significant contributions to both architecture and philanthropy, earning him numerous accolades. He has been recognized as a top contributor to Homes for Veterans and received the Voice of Reason award from the Green Initiative Climate Council. His work has also led to nominations for prestigious honors such as the Pritzker Architecture Prize and the Architecture Master's Prize, with him winning the Architectural Visionary Award in 2021. Outside of his professional life, Lugo enjoys connecting with nature, fishing, and exploring different cultures. His most incredible pride, however, lies in his family life in New York, where he shares a home with his wife, Genavieve, their two sons, and their beloved pets.
In 2015, Alberto Lugo founded the Architecture and Earth Awareness Foundation, an initiative that seamlessly combined his expertise in architectural design with his passion for environmental stewardship. This foundation became more than just a professional endeavor—it was a platform to inspire a paradigm shift within the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in every phase of design and development.
The mission of the foundation was clear from the start: to raise awareness among architects, construction companies, and engineers about the environmental impact of traditional building methods and promote green initiatives that protect natural habitats. Lugo envisioned a world where every building, regardless of its purpose or scale, could coexist harmoniously with nature. His philosophy was rooted in the idea that architecture should not merely occupy space but work with the environment, enhancing ecosystems rather than disrupting them.
The foundation quickly became influential, engaging industry leaders through workshops, conferences, and outreach programs. Lugo led these efforts personally, offering his expertise to educate others about eco-friendly innovations like energy-efficient systems, recycled materials, and nature-integrated designs. Under his leadership, the foundation also developed guidelines and resources for professionals seeking to implement sustainable practices across large-scale projects.
The impact of the Architecture and Earth Awareness Foundation was immediate and far-reaching. Lugo’s team provided direct consultation for over 400 global building projects, helping companies adopt green building standards and reduce their environmental footprints. These projects spanned everything from residential developments and office buildings to public spaces, setting a new benchmark for sustainable architecture.
Beyond professional circles, the foundation’s influence extended to public awareness campaigns and community events, reinforcing Lugo’s belief that environmental change must involve everyone. He often said that architecture isn’t just about structures; it’s about responsibility toward future generations.
With this initiative, A. Alberto Lugo achieved more than just accolades—he sparked a movement. The Architecture and Earth Awareness Foundation became a beacon of innovation, reshaping the future of construction while spreading the message that a sustainable tomorrow begins with thoughtful design today.
