Design Dialogue: Gilbert Rocca

At AC Martin, we believe our team's passion, creativity, and professionalism are what truly set us apart. To give you a closer look at the people behind our projects, we bring you Design Dialogues, a blog series where we'll be interviewing members of our team. Through these interviews, you'll get to know the individuals who bring our client’s vision to life—learning about their unique perspectives, professional journeys, and what inspires them every day. Join us as we dive into the stories behind the faces at AC Martin.

In this Design Dialogue, we hear from Gilbert Rocca, Managing Principal of the firm's multifamily residential, commercial, industrial, and hospitality studios.

What is your first memory of AC Martin?
 I won an urban high-rise design competition sponsored by AC Martin when I was in architecture school at Cal Poly Pomona. I learned about the firm and met some great people at that time. Now, 32 years later, I have the honor of working with more great colleagues at AC Martin!

Discuss a housing project you worked on that had a significant impact on you, either personally or professionally?
Housing is the foundation of every community, and contributing to someone’s home through design is deeply rewarding. A particular project that has been rewarding to design is Together California: A Village for Brothers & Sisters in Palmdale, CA. The positive impact of this project to the community will be tremendous. Together California is a revolutionary concept for foster care aimed at keeping siblings together and thriving. 

Together California: A Village for Brothers & Sisters, Palmdale, CA

Do you have a mentor?
Over the course of my career, I’ve worked with some amazing people. I’ve watched and learned from them; they have each played a role in being a mentor to me.

Are you a mentor?
I’ve always thought it important to help people grow and find their path in Architecture. I’d like to imagine a few people feel I’ve been helpful to them in their careers.

Is there an aspect of architecture in which you excel or are passionate about?
I really do enjoy the entire process, from early studies and concept design through completion of construction. It’s a privilege and responsibility to have clients entrust us with the design of their projects.

Current Inspiration?
Addressing the need for housing, in particular affordable housing throughout California.

Gil moderating a panel on affordable housing at a Bisnow conference.

Favorite City/Campus/Project/Neighborhood to visit?
I love Washington D.C. -  the urbanism, varying densities, walkability, iconic museums, and public spaces make it a real pleasure for me.

Is there an AC Martin designed project in your neighborhood?
My favorite is the tower at the Northrop Grumman “Space Park” in El Segundo. It is a great example of 1960’s modernism. AC Martin originally designed 14 of the buildings on the property between 1960 and 1967 as the headquarters of Thompson Ramo Wooldridge Inc. These are historic photographs from our archive.

 Headquarters of Thompson Ramo Wooldridge Inc., currently Northrup Grumman, El Segundo, CA. 

What's a common misconception about architecture that you wish more people understood?
It’s more than “drawing.” It’s about asking great questions of the client, stakeholders, users, and community to create solutions to big picture as well as very detailed questions/issues.

Something You couldn’t live without?
My family!

Where do you call home?
The Southbay region of Los Angeles.

How do you spend your weekends / holidays / time off?
I like keeping busy, which is easy to do when living in Los Angeles. Running at the beach, hiking, Dodger games, football games, great museums, and enjoying time with friends and family.  A night out dancing is really fantastic as well!

Early Bird or Night Owl?
Early Bird! Getting started early allows me to focus on my work while warming up with a cup of coffee.

Fun fact about you?
I play a mean accordion!

Gil hiking, and visiting Washington D.C.