Androsky Lugo, Founder, and CEO of the Framing Futures Architectural Firm (FFAF) in Southern California, since 2019. Lugo works as part of the team that oversees the workflow and processes that relate to the ongoing projects at the firm. He is a founding member of the executive team who plans, organizes, and designs the commercial and public structures in the cutting-edge modern architectural engineering industry.

Androsky Lugo spent over a decade as Senior Architect in numerous top firms in the San Fransisco area. Prior to his years in the industry, Lugo filled a five-year internship with Macaby and Roy that later advanced him to become one of the Senior Architects at the firm.

Receiving his Bachelor of Business from the University of Pennsylvania in 2000, Lugo made the decision to move his career and goals and later transitioned to receiving his Master’s degree at Cornell University in 2022. Lugo also studied Building Science and Technology and Environmental Systems and in 2003 decided to return to Cornell to complete his education in the subject of environmentally-conscious building and design.In his decade-long career as an architect, Lugo has had many opportunities with countless high-level projects. From working with the San Fransisco Historic Building Committee in 2012 to planning and designing renovations in several public service spaces. In 2005 Lugo designed the very first structure that was completely built from sustainable materials while standing as lead designer of a shopping center at Parkins and Rhodon where he lead the drafting plans for the development.

Androsky Lugo’s career has always been centered around Architecture and design but his heart and goals have always been focused on environmental protection through sustainable architectural design. Lugo is an influence on many levels due to his skill and passion for drafting building designs with ecological protection. He has a vast appreciation for protecting natural habitats ecosystems, water systems, and building structures that flow with nature.

How did you get started in this business?

I started my internship with my father’s company which helped me to launch myself into a position as Project Architect in Albany, NY, at a company that was founded by my father in 1990. Prior to this, I have held multiple positions, including some time spent as a business consultant for a small business development firm in NYC

How do you make money?

I have had numerous opportunities to work on high-level architectural projects that primarily contract me to work with them on projects such as design renovations, sustainable and recycled material buildings, Architectural design, urban development, etc.

How long did it take for you to become profitable?

I initially received my Bachelor of Business and then went on to obtain my Master of Architecture degree before returning back to Cornel to complete my Masters in Science and Technology. After I graduated I worked for my father’s company where I began to build my portfolio in order to put my work out to the public. This took years to become successful and to make a profit.

When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?

Androsky Lugo – Everyone has doubts but I was fortunate enough to succeed through family support and a well-established group of professionals in the space that allowed me to expand and think in creative ways that set me on the path to success.

How did you get your first customer?

In late 2002 I was able to land a small contract with a firm in New York as a business consultant that later helped me build on my contacts and meet other companies that were interested in my work in the architectural industry.

What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?

Social media is a huge part of marketing. Building resumes and groups is a large part of meeting new people in the space and branching out into new and exciting markets.

What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?

Turning down new business opportunities is always difficult but allowing yourself to only take on what you can give all your attention to is beneficial for your mind body and health.

What do you think it is that makes you successful?

Hard work pays off. Being the hardest worker that you know will always give you the edge and advantage over someone else who is not willing to put in the work to get ahead.

What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

I was the lead designer for a full shopping center, had a hand in drafting plans for a multi-story house of worship, and worked with the local urban development team to design affordable housing when I was at Hagmans Group in NY. My most satisfying moment was designing the first structure built completely out of sustainable and recycled materials.

What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?

What are you most excited about? I am excited about new technologies and advancements in the industry. Moving on to the next big thing is always very exciting for me.

What business books have inspired you?

I recommend reading Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown and the 48 laws of power. Both of these books give you fantastic insight on how to become successful.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I would say to learn as much as you can, read as often as you can and allow others to teach you. You are always learning and growing and you don’t know everything.

Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?