12 Things We’re Thankful for this Thanksgiving
Written by Cristina Villalón
ABOUT THE AUTHOR | Cristina Villalón is the Co-Founder, CEO & Director of Interior Design of AD&V®.
THIS YEAR HAS BEEN NOTHING SHORT OF TRANSFORMATIVE FOR AD&V.
2024 has been a year filled with milestones, innovation, and gratitude.
As we reflect on the journey of 2024, we take a pause during Thanksgiving to reflect on the incredible moments and accomplishments that have filled us with appreciation and excitement for the future.
Here are 12 things we’re thankful for this Thanksgiving:
1. AD&V’S BRANDING EVOLUTION
This year marked an exciting milestone for AD&V as we unveiled our updated logo and new brand assets, reflecting our growth and evolution as a firm. Along with a new logo, we introduced vibrant new secondary colors that embody the natural beauty and energy of our Caribbean roots. Our rebranding honors the legacy and values that define us.
2. RECEIVING B CORP CERTIFICATION
We are immensely proud to be the first Puerto Rican design firm to become a Certified B Corporation! This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Becoming a B Corp means holding ourselves to the highest standards of accountability and transparency while driving a positive impact for our team, our clients, and our communities.
3. A GROWING TEAM
2024 has brought incredible talent to AD&V, with new team members joining our ranks to help us continue to live out our mission of designing Places of Purpose. Each individual has brought unique skills, creativity, and energy to our firm. We are thankful for the hard work, passion, and dedication that every member of our team contributes daily.
4. INC.’S BEST WORKPLACES 2024 RECOGNITION
We’re honored to have been recognized by Inc. as one of the Best Workplaces of 2024. After years of working to achieve this goal, this recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment and dedication to building an exceptional workplace. Each of us holds this award with pride, knowing that together, we’re building a thriving and supportive work environment.
5. EMBRACING FUTURE-READY TECHNOLOGY
Our Meta Lab has been a game-changer in 2024, driving our efforts in Virtual Reality (VR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Augmented Reality (AR). These technologies have enhanced our design processes and client experiences, allowing us to deliver immersive solutions that redefine what’s possible in architecture and design.
6. TURNING IDEAS INTO TANGIBLE REALITIES
This year, our Maker Lab has been instrumental in revolutionizing how we design and present our projects. Equipped with cutting-edge 3D printing technology, we’ve created detailed project models and intricate cityscapes of iconic areas in Puerto Rico, offering clients and communities a tangible and engaging way to visualize our designs. We are excited to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation using these incredible tools.
7. STORYTELLING THROUGH NEW PLATFORMS
This year marked the launch of our Media Lab, a dedicated space for sharing stories and insights about architecture, design, and entrepreneurship. We are thrilled to have begun production of our new podcast series, an exciting step in connecting with our audience in a fresh and meaningful way. Stay tuned for the release of the podcast as we continue to share compelling conversations and ideas.
8. DRIVING COMMUNITY PROGRESS
We are deeply thankful and inspired by our collaboration and plans for Action Hub, a Non-Profit Organization that stemmed from our firm's research and development efforts. The organization will be dedicated to driving progress in Puerto Rico through cutting-edge research and impactful projects and partnerships. It seeks to tackle the island’s complex social challenges by harnessing the transformative power of design.
9. PIONEERING IMPACT IN REAL ESTATE
This year, I had the honor of co-founding Valora Ventures, a women-led real estate development firm, alongside Natalia Guzmán. Valora Ventures is focused on revitalizing urban areas and reimagining existing properties to drive positive economic and social change.
By combining Natalia’s expertise in finance with our background in design and development, we will work diligently and urgently to address Puerto Rico’s most pressing housing and economic development challenges. Together we are driven to make a lasting positive impact on our communities.
10. INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
This year, we had the privilege of hosting three incredible AD&Vantage Nights, welcoming high school students from 9th to 12th grade to explore the exciting worlds of architecture and interior design.
These events provided students with insights into potential career paths and valuable guidance for their post-graduation plans. From discovering their passions to learning about the industry, AD&Vantage Night was all about empowering the next generation to make informed decisions and pursue bright, successful futures.
11. JOINING UNGC’S FORWARD FASTER INITIATIVE
Joining the United Nations Global Compact’s Forward Faster initiative has been a the next step in our sustainability journey. We are committed to achieving gender equality, and equal pay, ensuring that every team member earns a living wage by 2030. This initiative underscores our dedication to using our business as a force for good.
12. THE SUPPORT OF OUR COMMUNITY
As we close out 2024, we’re grateful for these opportunities and achievements. We are also immensely thankful for our clients, partners, and community who continue to trust and support our vision. Your belief in AD&V fuels our passion to innovate and create Places of Purpose that leave a lasting positive impact.
This Thanksgiving, we encourage you to reflect on what fills your heart with gratitude and share those moments with your loved ones. From all of us at AD&V, have a joyful and blessed Thanksgiving!
FURTHER READING: 5 WAYS THE UN IS PUSHING US FORWARD FASTER TOWARD SUSTAINABILITY