About.
Philosophy.
RA+D views design as a social tool that can be used to dismantle barriers and affirm the dignity of underserved communities. Our work is rooted in the belief that every structure should pulse with the unique character of its location, honoring the specific history and spirit of the land it occupies. By prioritizing projects in neighborhoods others ignore, we turn design into an act of social justice. We believe that beauty and excellence are not luxuries for the few, but rights for the many.
To protect this mission, the studio intentionally rejects the rise of algorithmic output in favor of human-led craft. We know that true community impact requires a personal touch and a thoughtful eye, rather than automated solutions. By keeping the process human-centered, we ensure that every project remains as unique and resilient as the people who live and work within it.
ROLANDO RODRIGUEZ
Owner / Artist
An accomplished sketch artist of 15 years, Rolando has continually honed a dedicated hand-drawing craft across diverse mediums and methods, including reportage, portraiture, and single-line sketching utilizing pens, markers, colored pencils, and brushed ink on paper.
This deeply creative foundation seamlessly informs his work as an architectural designer with 10 years of experience leading projects from initial concept to final closeout.
A determined problem solver, Rolando’s architectural portfolio spans the residential, hospitality, and education sectors —including field work and construction administration for Chicago Public Schools — alongside the successful delivery of over 60 completed fast food restaurant projects across 20 states, ranging from minor alterations to custom new builds.
Illinois Institute of Technology
Bachelor of Architecture
MARISA RODRIGUEZ
Owner / Interior Designer
A diverse interior designer with a 20-year practice in collaging and arranging, Marisa composes unique visual narratives using clipped print media, digital imagery, clothing, and found antiques. This artistic foundation directly informs her interior work, translating a decades-long mastery of assembly into the curation of physical environments.
As a retail veteran and administration professional with a diverse background in marketing and the fine arts, Marisa specializes in crafting functional, yet deeply personal interior spaces.
She seamlessly combines technical proficiency in top BIM software with a mastery of color theory, materiality, and sustainable FF&E selection. She leverages the diversity of her skills to weave a client's personal history into a cohesive, beautifully arranged spatial story.
Columbia College Chicago
Bachelor of Fine Art, Interior Architecture