President Donald Trump has once again publicly praised Rick Gonzalez, a Cuban-American architect who has played a pivotal yet understated role in shaping Mar-a-Lago for over a quarter of a century.
"He's truly talented, and he's from Cuba," Trump remarked recently, highlighting the professional relationship with Gonzalez that spans three decades.
Gonzalez serves as president and co-founder of REG Architects, a West Palm Beach-based firm he established with his father, Ricardo Gonzalez, in 1988. Born in Cuba and raised in Miami and later Costa Rica, Rick Gonzalez earned two architecture degrees from the Catholic University of America in Washington D.C. He furthered his education with specialized courses in classical design in Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Italy, including studies in Venice, Florence, and the Veneto.
Forming a Lasting Bond
The professional connection between Gonzalez and Trump began in 1997 when Trump, then a businessman, interviewed the architect. According to Gonzalez, the topic of Cuba arose immediately in that initial discussion, laying the groundwork for a long-standing affinity.
Since that meeting, REG Architects has become the go-to firm for architectural work at Mar-a-Lago, Trump's historic mansion in Palm Beach.
Specializing in Historic Preservation
Mar-a-Lago, a National Historic Landmark, requires that any modifications receive approval from both the Palm Beach Landmarks Preservation Commission and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Gonzalez's expertise in historic preservation has thus become an invaluable asset.
In 1998, REG Architects was honored with the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation Award for restoring the club. One of the most visible projects was the 2017 construction of a helipad for the presidential helicopter, Marine One—a 50-foot-long steel-reinforced concrete platform situated 300 feet from the main buildings.
In January 2023, the firm submitted designs for a 232-square-foot security booth at Mar-a-Lago's main entrance, featuring coquina cladding, terracotta tiles, and bulletproof glass.
Expanding Projects and Roles
Current projects include a guest residence in Palm Beach and a three-story, 45,000-square-foot office building for Trump National Golf Club in Jupiter, Florida.
Trump's trust in Gonzalez extends beyond business. In March 2020, Trump appointed him as an Expert Member of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) and later promoted him to Vice Chairman. During Trump's second term, Gonzalez was reappointed, taking the oath alongside six new members.
Aside from his work with Trump, Gonzalez boasts a robust institutional career. He served as the president of the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation from 2008 to 2020, was a member of the State Board of Architecture and Interior Design under Governor Jeb Bush from 2000 to 2007, and received the Gold Medal from the American Institute of Architects Palm Beach in November 2020.
REG Architects ranks among Florida's top three firms specializing in historic preservation, actively participating in about a dozen projects across the state.
According to a report by Telemundo 51, Gonzalez deliberately keeps a low profile and shuns public exposure. Many of his interactions with Trump occur on the golf course, where informal conversations take place with Trump's inner circle.
The recent public praise from Trump has again thrust Gonzalez into the spotlight, reminding us that a Cuban-American architect has been shaping the "Winter White House" for over 25 years.
Exploring Rick Gonzalez's Impact on Mar-a-Lago
What is Rick Gonzalez's role in Mar-a-Lago's architecture?
Rick Gonzalez has been a key figure in the architectural transformation of Mar-a-Lago for over 25 years, leading projects that require careful historic preservation.
How did Gonzalez and Trump start working together?
Their professional relationship began in 1997 when Trump interviewed Gonzalez, and they bonded over a shared interest in Cuba during their first discussion.
What recognition has Gonzalez received for his work?
Gonzalez has received numerous accolades, including the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation Award and the Gold Medal from the American Institute of Architects Palm Beach.