HEMAA Co-Founder Alejandra Tornel on Architecture as Non-Negotiable Practice

Alejandra Tornel, a co-founder of the architecture and development firm HEMAA in Mexico City, believes that the shortcomings in architectural practice stem not from a lack of skill but from excessive compromises. Founded in 2011 with partners José Miguel Fainsod and Santiago Hernández Matos, HEMAA is recognized for harmoniously blending architecture with its environment to create highly livable spaces. Tornel, a Universidad Iberoamericana (UIA) graduate from 2005, stresses the importance of setting clear expectations from the outset to avoid failure. She recalls advice from architect Benjamín Romano: "Don't compromise." The pandemic taught HEMAA to balance ongoing production with strategic breaks, establishing essential studio practices, including a weekly planning session. Tornel highlights the unique sensitivity women contribute to modern architecture, particularly in spatial usage, and encourages new architects to trust their instincts and voice their opinions. HEMAA aims to design spaces that mature gracefully and foster meaningful interactions with their surroundings. Their work is showcased in Glocal Design Magazine's 89th issue, "Visionarias del espacio," featuring 15 women architects and interior designers influencing the discourse on architecture and design in Mexico, along with two collector covers by Prince Láuder and Jimena Estíbaliz.