Roots DNA

As architects, we are uniquely positioned to positively impact the human experience through the built environment. At RooTSDNA, we strive to expand the traditional architecture principle of "form follows function" to "form follows joy." We believe that without joy, architecture becomes merely a technical endeavor. Our goal is to create and shape experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Founded in 2008 by a group of architects led by Claudio Salazar, AIA, RooTSDNA has extensive experience working in various contexts and programs around the world. Our team has a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented by physical and cultural contexts, allowing us to create value for both our clients and the communities we serve.

Claudio Salazar, AIA, is the founder and principal architect at RooTSDNA. With a Bachelor of Design in Architecture from the University of Florida and a Master of Architecture from the Boston Architectural College, Claudio has focused his work on recursive geometry in industrialized customization for urban design interventions. Since 2000, Claudio has been the designer, project manager, and master planner for numerous residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects in the United States, Europe, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East.

At RooTSDNA, we believe that every building has the potential to improve the built environment and the lives of its inhabitants. Our approach is guided by aesthetics, economics, and environmental and social responsibilities, with a focus on optimism. We strive to create beautiful environments that are rooted in their place and responsive to the needs of the owners, occupants, and neighbors (human, animal, or vegetable).

Projects

Our projects reflect our commitment to creating beautiful environments that are optimized for performance and use. We approach each building with a deep sense of responsibility and opportunity, working closely with stakeholders to ensure that their needs and perspectives are integrated into the design.

Recent projects include the Private Residence Miami Beach in Florida, the Private Residence Coral Gables in Florida, the Private Residence Coconut Grove in Florida, and the Welcome Center at Eco Resort in Pensacola, Florida. We have also completed the Water Treatment Facility in Miami, Florida, the Private Residence in Anton, Panama, the Sport & Recreational Center for Autism in Coconut Grove, Florida, the Community Center & Lecture Hall in Boston, Massachusetts, the Miami River Master Plan in Miami, Florida, and the Recital & Performing Facility in Boston, Massachusetts.

Services

At RooTSDNA, we believe that the early involvement of consultants, specialists, and construction partners is essential to reducing uncertainties in building projects. We use Building Information Modeling (BIM) and other design integration systems to empower our clients with tools for more control over the evaluation of options at any stage of the design.

Our Virtual Reality (VR) visualization and data analysis systems respond to design changes in real-time, helping owners in their decision-making process. We consider the interconnectedness of all things in our design process, ensuring that building systems are synchronized and that natural systems outside the building envelope are examined to find synergies between the building and its surroundings.

In our architecture services, we prioritize whole systems thinking, using an ethical guide to design decisions that allows us to create high-performance buildings. We believe that architecture should be optimized for joy, beauty, and performance, and we strive to create buildings that reflect these values.