Meet Ron Mandalian | Architect

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ron Mandalian and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ron, how do you think about risk?
When considering risks, it’s important to focus on the client’s vision and goals, without projecting one’s own outcomes. Depending on the nature of the project and the clients goals, it may not be the best to take loud risks that can be polarizing and cut your audience in half. It’s not always about taking the biggest risks, aiming for the spotlight, but rather about taking calculated risks that align with our client’s goal and vision. Risks that bring consistent quality and value to the project, those are the risks I’ve learned to take.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey from State Structural University to Woodbury University in Los Angeles was a long and challenging road, but it has taught me valuable lessons about determination, perseverance, and the power of hard work. As an immigrant, I faced countless obstacles and setbacks, but I never lost sight of my dreams.

Through my passion for architecture and design, I was able to overcome these obstacles and build a successful business, UDS, which has been a source of pride and inspiration for me.

As an Armenian-owned business, I am proud to have been able to create something that reflects my roots while still embracing the opportunities that America has to offer. I believe that my story is a testament to the fact that with hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve their dreams, regardless of where they come from.

Through my journey, I have learned that the most significant rewards in life come from pushing past your limits and refusing to give up, even when the odds are against you. I want the world to know that success is not just about talent or intelligence – it’s about resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to your goals.

So to anyone out there who feels like giving up, I urge you to keep pushing forward. Remember that your struggles are just a part of your story, and with hard work, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Whether it’s starting your own business, pursuing your passion, or simply living your best life, know that the power to make it happen lies within you.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As locals who love to stay close to home and show off the best of Marina del Rey, I would create an itinerary that takes my friend on a carefully curated tour of our favorite spots.

Day one, we would kick things off with a delicious brunch at The Tasting Kitchen in Venice, followed by a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk and maybe the Venice Canals. For dinner, we would head to Uovo, another one of our favorite places right on the marina.

The next day, we would hop on my boat, which is docked in Marina, and take a cruise along the coast to watch the sunset. It’s one of our favorite things to do, and I know my friend would love it.

One day would be all about enjoying the beautiful California weather, with a bike ride along the strand down to Manhattan Beach for lunch. It’s a scenic ride that passes by the beach and through some of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the area. After lunch, we would head back to Marina del Rey and spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach or on the boat.

We would explore the amazing Getty Center in Brentwood. The Getty Center is an architectural masterpiece with breathtaking views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. We would spend the day exploring the galleries and gardens, and maybe catch a performance if there’s something interesting going on. For lunch, we would head to Calabra, a rooftop on the Proper hotel in Santa Monica that has great architectural and interior features.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to give a shoutout to my whole team at Urban Design Specialists. Any and all success we have is thanks to the efforts of our entire team.

Website: https://urbandesignspecialists.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbandesignspecialists/