Our Story
Partners in business and in life, husband and wife team Francisca and Antonio Alonso are the creative force behind AV Architects + Builders.
Francisca and Antonio met at the School of Architecture at the Catholic University of America in 1987. In 2001, after the birth of their fourth child, Francisca and Antonio decided to change directions from working in large Architecture firms in the Washington DC area and founded AV Architects. Within a year, they formed AV Builders and created their unique Architect-Led Design-Build approach to designing and building modern custom homes. The philosophy for designing and building modern custom homes as the Master Builder is the cornerstone of the business.
With family backgrounds in Spain and having both lived there, the two shared an affinity for the Mediterranean lifestyle and the way the architecture reflects that lifestyle.
This lifestyle philosophy has resulted in designing homes in the Mid-Atlantic region with a unique modern aesthetic. Their concept of Vacation Style Living™, encompasses this lifestyle philosophy. One that incorporates connecting the home to the land and creating a strong indoor-outdoor relationship to link family life to nature that results in a sustainable design approach.
For over 20 years, Francisca and Antonio have been creating visions by fusing their knowledge and skills with their clients’ needs and desires. This vision for their home is transformed into a real-life space that’s uniquely personalized to their needs, their dreams, and their lifestyle.
AV Architects + Builders are licensed architects in VA, MD and DC, Class A Contractors in Virginia, and Registered Home Builders in the State of Maryland.
Astrid
My name is Astrid and I am an architectural designer at AV Architects + Builders. I enjoy working with our clients to create unique spaces for their unique lifestyles.
What is your favorite place in the DMV?
We live at the southernmost end of the George Washington Parkway. I have always loved driving down the parkway especially as the leaves are changing in the fall. It is such a peaceful and beautiful drive.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is meeting with clients and helping them formulate what they want for their dream home.
What’s one quote you like to live by?
“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” – Mother Teresa
Sofia
Hello! I am Sofia, the Content Manager for AV Architects + Builders. I interview the experts on our team to get the best information to share in our Learning Center.
What is your favorite place in the DMV?
One of my favorite spots in the DMV is Great Falls National Park. It’s so beautiful, I love to take my dogs there!
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is getting to work with my family as I’ve been watching my mom create this company from the ground up for over 20 years.
What makes a successful project?
I believe that communication makes a successful project. Being an Architect-Led Design-Build firm, communication is at the core of our business model. There is no opportunity for miscommunication as we are the lead on the project from start to finish.
Dolores
Hello! I am Dolores, the Managing Director of AV Architects + Builders. I am usually the first person you’ll see when you walk in our office and you’ll likely hear my voice if you call in!
What do you do in your spare time?
It’s all about my dog – Bojangles.
What is your favorite place in the DMV?
I love being so close to the nation’s capital and enjoying its rich history and culture and of course its music and food scene!
What is your favorite part of your job?
Working with my family and watching our clients dream homes become a reality!
Sophie
My name is Sophie and I am the videographer at AV Architects + Builders. I have experience working in feature films, reality television, documentaries, short films, and live sports.
What is your favorite place in the DMV?
My favorite place in the DMV is my parents’ house. Nothing like going home and spending time with the family.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
I once filmed in a bear cage. That was pretty wild…
What is your favorite part of your job?
I love getting to film all the different events that AV Architects + Builders hosts. From fashion shows to art galleries, to a behind the scenes tour of the National Cathedral. It keeps things interesting and gives me the opportunity to engage with charitable organizations in my work.
Affiliations
Awards & Publications
Giving Back
Francisca and Antonio are dedicated philanthropists who firmly believe in the importance of architecture reflecting a social conscience. In Northern Virginia, they actively support various local causes, including Habitat for Humanity, Second Chance, Women Giving Back, The Women’s Center of Vienna, and other local causes.
Francisca’s involvement in community service goes beyond conventional boundaries. She serves on the board of directors of the Women’s Center of Vienna, working to provide vital resources to empower and uplift women in the community.
Furthermore, the AV office in Great Falls proudly serves as a drop-off site for clothing donations from Women Giving Back, an organization dedicated to helping women in need.
The entire AV Team regularly participates in community events and fundraisers to make a positive impact on the local community.
In addition to her philanthropic endeavors, Francisca is deeply committed to mentoring and empowering young women. She participates in The Hot Mommas Project® and the Tyson’s Chamber of Commerce Shadow Program, among other mentoring programs. Her goal is to inspire and uplift young women, helping them realize their full potential.
Francisca’s success and experiences as an executive leader in Washington D.C. are highlighted in the book “Profiles in Success: Inspiration from Executive Leaders in Washington D.C.” This book delves into her inspiring journey, providing valuable insights into her achievements and the lessons she has learned along the way.
