Joel Estévez González

Architectural Designer

Joel, originally from Cuba, obtained his Architecture and Urban Planning degree in Havana in 2005. From 2016, he worked as the lead architect for the Construction & Restoration Department of the Archbishop's Office of Havana. He also served as Vice President of the Cuban chapters of INTBAU (International Network for Traditional Building Architecture & Urbanism) and CEU (Council for European Urbanism). In these roles, he organized several charrettes focusing on the future development of Havana, while sharing his knowledge of traditional architecture and urban planning.

In 2022, Joel moved to South Bend to pursue a Master's in Historic Preservation at the University of Notre Dame, which he completed in 2024. During his time at Notre Dame, Joel and his graduate school cohort received a CNU Student Award for their project "Back to Better: An Urban Conservation and Regeneration Plan for South Bend's Near Northwest Neighborhood." He joined Kil Architecture as an intern while studying and transitioned to working with the firm full-time in mid-2024.

Outside of work, Joel enjoys spending time with his wife and son. They often explore local parks, rivers, discover interesting local architecture, and participate in various community activities.