GARY MARTINEZ, AIA

During the past twenty-five years of professional practice in architecture, Mr. Martinez has developed a nationally recognized expertise in the restoration and adaptive re-use of historic landmark structures. As a founding partner of Martinez & Johnson I Architecture (MJ I A) he has directed the growth and activities of an office that is executing projects involving landmark office, multi-family residential and institutional structures. In its history, starting in 1994, the office has produced design and construction documents for buildings totaling over four hundred million dollars in construction costs.

Working with the leading promoters and producers of Broadway theatre, Mr. Martinez has developed a special expertise in the preservation and rehabilitation of historic theatres and performing arts centers. The firm is currently executing theatre commissions in Boston, New York, Toronto, El Paso (The Interstate Plaza Theatre), and Charlottesville, Virginia. MJ I A assists in surveying the national circuit of theatres for Broadway road shows including Cabaret.

A member of the Capitol Hill Business Association, Mr. Martinez has chaired volunteer committees studying Streetscape Planning and Transportation in and around the Capitol. He has appeared before the Washington Association of Realtors as a member of the New Zoning and Development Committee and has conducted seminars in professional practice for the American Institute of Architects. Acting on a strongly held belief in the leadership role of architecture in creating a safe, well-built environment, Mr. Martinez has led his firm in its participation in community planning activities. Various projects such as the development of portable emergency shelters for homeless persons in the District of Columbia and the pro bono representation to the Historic Preservation Review Board of applicants who might otherwise be unable to afford such professional services, exemplify this activist stand.