They are Architect Mercedes Carriquiry, a graduate of the School of Architecture at the University of the Republic; and Architect Andy Robert, a graduate of the Architecture program at Universidad ORT Uruguay.
In addition to being friends and architects, they are also partners and founders of /slantis, the Uruguayan company that has made an indelible mark on the architecture and technology sector.
Recently, the female entrepreneurs were interviewed by the magazine Forbes, where they shared their inspiring story and revealed some of the secrets behind the company’s success, which we review below.
An Encounter with Innovation
The story of Andy Robert and Mercedes Carriquiry is a testament to the power of passion, female leadership, and determination to overcome obstacles and achieve success. The architects joined forces with one goal in mind: to revolutionize the architecture industry through technology.
From the moment they met as teenagers, they shared a common vision of creating something extraordinary, of pushing beyond established boundaries, and of defying convention. That is how /slantis was born.
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/slantis, technology and architecture
As Universidad ORT Uruguay recounted in the interview Universidad ORT Uruguay the Universidad ORT Uruguay School of Architecture in 2019, titled "Ten Lessons in Innovation and Entrepreneurship," /slantis is a firm dedicated to helping architecture firms in the United States develop their construction drawings, reduce costs, and streamline production through technology.
After working at various firms and gaining invaluable experience in the field of architecture, Robert and Carriquiry decided to join forces and embark on a business venture that would change their lives forever.
In 2015, they founded /slantis, a company specializing in technology applied to architecture. With nothing but a name, a website, and unwavering determination, they entered the U.S. market in search of opportunities.
- You might also be interested in reading: “Architecture and 3D Printing in Uruguay”
Rapid growth
The road to success wasn't easy for Robert and Carriquiry, but their passion for innovation and tireless dedication enabled them to overcome every obstacle they encountered along the way.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsBwdQdC2cI
In an interview with Forbes, the company’s founders revealed that they have experienced remarkable growth, with a 150% increase in revenue over the past three years, and are projecting 250% growth by 2023.
These impressive figures show that their revolutionary approach to architectural technology has caught the attention of industry giants such as Apple, Google, and YouTube, all of whom have become their clients.
- You can also read: “Architecture and video games: a partnership that is changing the way things are done”
Technology in architecture as the cornerstone of success
One of the key factors driving the success of /slantis isthe use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology in architectural projects.
This technology allowed them to create digital models of the buildings before construction began, giving clients the ability to visualize and test the design in a virtual environment.
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- We also recommend reading: "From CAD to BIM with Edificius: Keys to a Smooth Transition, a lecture by Engineer Juan Pedro Malagón Díaz"
As Carriquiry told Forbes, this methodology saves time and resources and ensures the quality of the project. “It makes the pre-construction process 40% more cost-effective for our clients and has a 30% impact on quality and a 20% impact on cost in later stages,” Carriquiry said in the interview.
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Identity, Competence, and Differentiation
Although there are other companies working on the implementation of BIM technology in the field of architecture, this company has managed to stand out thanks to its comprehensive approach and in-depth knowledge of the technology.
We're architects helping architects! Don't let an overwhelming workload stop you from creating amazing projects. We can help you develop your designs using cutting-edge technology. Visit https://t.co/73I9zUym8d to learn more about our services!
— /slantis (@lifeatslantis) May 2, 2023
Robert and Carriquiry identify top-tier consulting firms with a technology focus and companies focused on traditional projects as their main competitors.
In this regard, the company positions itself at the intersection of these two areas, offering its clients a unique solution that combines cutting-edge technology with a customer-centric approach and process optimization.
- You might also be interested in reading: “Sustainable Architecture and Renewable Energy: The Future of Construction”
Technology and Architecture: Impact on the Industry
The impact of /slantis on the architecture industry has been undeniable. Its innovative approach has led to greater efficiency in the building design and construction process, resulting in significant cost savings for clients and an improvement in the final quality of projects.
Relive the interview with Andy Robert and Mercedes Carriquiry at the School of Architecture:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dk-fsLWJugg
In addition, their involvement in landmark projects, such as Apple’s campus in Rancho Bernardo and the new wing of YouTube’s headquarters, has cemented their reputation as leaders in the application of BIM technology in architecture.
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The Promising Future of /slantis
Looking ahead, Andy Robert and Mercedes Carriquiry have big plans for /slantis. They are currently exploring opportunities in projects such as the Los Angeles and Seattle airports and continue to expand their presence in the U.S. market.
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Their vision is to make /slantis a global leader in the implementation of technology in architecture and to have a lasting impact on the way buildings are designed and constructed around the world.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JigccCXLbZ0
Andy Robert and Mercedes Carriquiry have shown that passion, innovation, and dedication can open doors and lead to success. With a promising future ahead, these visionaries continue to make their mark on the industry and pave the way toward a more efficient and sustainable architecture.
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