Protecting and Celebrating: Daniel Vega '21 BS SBE, '24 M.Arch
Nine Questions with Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Built Environments / Master of Architecture Student Daniel Vega
“Many of the beliefs we carry associate with protecting and celebrating this beautiful environment we reside in—which the SBE does as well, just in a more urban way.”
Yaqui tribe member Daniel Vega, who is from Tucson, graduated from the Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Built Environments program in December 2021. Continuing his passion for sustainable design, he is taking advantage of the CAPLA Master of Architecture accelerated master’s program (AMP), which allowed him to start the M.Arch program during his SBE senior year. He will complete the M.Arch in 2024.
What brought you to the University of Arizona to study sustainable built environments?
I transferred to CAPLA from Pima Community College. I originally enrolled in the Bachelor of Architecture program, but I found that many of the interests and values I was raised with align with sustainability and so I switched to the BS in Sustainable Built Environments.
I am a member of the Yaqui tribe, and many of the beliefs we carry associate with protecting and celebrating this beautiful environment we reside in—which the SBE does as well, just in a more urban way. I felt the importance, by influence of my culture, to incorporate sustainability into my life, especially in the urban environments where it is needed the most.
ARC 510B Master’s Immersion Studio final project: Mountain Pavilion, by Daniel Vega.
Tell us about your SBE emphasis area and other SBE areas of interest.
My SBE emphasis area is Sustainable Buildings, and more specifically (rain)water harvesting systems that can be implemented in buildings. Growing up in the Sonoran Desert, we crave rain 24/7 and through harvesting the rain we can help replenish our environment over time. What excites me most about rainwater harvesting is that we receive more rain than we think here in the desert. Being able to capture and use that water efficiently can benefit our people, homes and communities.
What do you like best about the College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture?
The faculty at CAPLA is amazing. Every professor and staff member wants you to succeed and grow as a student and as a professional. Because the faculty is very knowledgeable and passionate about their work, it makes it easier to engage with our work as a student and gain appreciation for the topics we study.
Tell us about your master’s immersion studio final project, which you were able to take your senior year as part of the AMP.
I enjoyed my final project for ARC 510B Master’s Immersion Studio. The goal was to analyze the site of Gates Pass in the Tucson Mountains west of Tucson and develop a pavilion for hikers to interact with. I designed a walk-through pavilion that reflects a cavelike experience for hikers through playful lighting. The structure teases with land art and mimics an abstract mountain and flows with the rhythm of the peaks of Gates Pass. I really liked the creativity and critical thinking aspects of the project, and seeing the process of realization through multiple models and renders.
ARC 510B Master’s Immersion Studio final project: Mountain Pavilion, north view, by Daniel Vega.
What has been your biggest challenge at CAPLA, and how have you overcome that challenge?
My biggest challenge here at CAPLA would have to be time management. Finishing my SBE degree and starting my M.Arch III program has been hectic at times, but it also has its benefits. I found that getting a head start on my projects and work allowed me to feel more comfortable and produce higher quality work. Because I start ahead of time, I am left with room to revise and polish my work.
What does the CAPLA experience mean for you?
The CAPLA experience to me is remarkable: meeting new people, creating friendships and most importantly being surrounded by like-minded people who are chasing a goal or dream to have a career in the field of architecture. From the work atmosphere in the studio to the engaging learning experience in the classroom, it’s great.
What do you do in your spare time?
My hobbies include painting, drawing and playing instruments like the guitar and harp. Occasionally I take hikes, which is enjoyable and a stress reliever.
ARC 510B Master’s Immersion Studio final project: Mountain Pavilion, south view, by Daniel Vega.
What internships and certifications do you have?
At this moment, I hold an internship with Natural Building Works, which is devoted to sustainable building methods. Some of their projects include residential straw bale houses, rammed earth walls and benches and construction with earthen and recycled materials. In addition to the internship, I also have a certification through Watershed Management Group to build rainwater harvesting systems.
What advice do you have for prospective SBE students?
Soak in all the information you can and have an open mind! The guest lectures, and even the everyday classroom, provide many learning opportunities. By hearing other people’s ideas and work, it may spark a solution or bright idea that you can expand upon.
