Matías Menichetti joined Hyphen in 2019 as office head in Santiago and was promoted to director at the start of 2023. Based in Santiago, Chile, Matías and his team have been instrumental in the expansion of our business across Latin America, leading to Hyphen being included in the WA100 2023’s top 10 architectural practices operating in South and Central America.
We interviewed Matías to find out more:
Congratulations on becoming a director! What are your plans for 2023?
We have big plans for expansion and growth in Latin America. We’re targeting the opening of new offices, while pursuing business opportunities across the region.
What does this achievement mean to you?
It’s a big milestone for my professional career, but it’s also recognition for what we have achieved as a team in Latin America – to be the first office based outside of Europe. I’m proud of our team for supporting its continued development.
What advice would you offer to others aspiring to become a director?
I would say for aspiring directors in Latin America, we are an emerging region not as mature as developed markets such as the UK or the US, so there are unique opportunities that come with that. Focus on them. We have a huge advantage of being an international firm. Focus on what we don’t already do but could do and what sectors we could target. Put the effort in to research, building your network and pursuing business growth.
What do you consider to be your secret work superpower?
I put a lot of energy and commitment into what I do. If you put the right focus and energy into your goals, both personally and professionally, you will succeed.
What did you do to progress your career?
When I was studying architecture, I took part in a year’s exchange in the US because it seemed like a fun thing to do. I didn’t realise it would shape my future career. It gave me a hunger for learning other ways of working, of collaborating on international projects and looking at things in the international context.
I realised I was always interested in the business part of architecture as well as the design role that comes with the profession. I studied business management, which prepared me for a more commercial role, looking at things like finance, operations, and business development. These experiences were invaluable in preparing me for the office head and director roles at Hyphen.
What might people not know about you?
I have cycles where I am enthusiastic about a particular sport. So, every two or three years I change the cycle. For example, I spent three years doing mountain biking, then three years swimming, then three years playing tennis. Now, I’m into running.
