The wowhouse
Mark Neuenschwander, Obraje 2021
Torsten Birk Watts understands and produces beauty and quality, knows which materials work best in San Miguel’s climate, and combines precision craftsmanship with impeccable integrity. Nothing but a delight to work with on a project. “WOW House” is the right name for his firm.
Architect Barry Shapiro 2020
After being an American architect for 45 years I’ve had the privilege to work with some very talented people. Torsten B. Watts may be one of the most unique architects I’ve worked with, especially as a result of his special circumstances. Torsten, born in the U.S., spent almost his entire life in Mexico. Bi-lingual and bi-cultural is a gift that few can claim.
After graduating with honors from one of the best architecture schools in Mexico he moved back to his home town of San Miguel de Allende to start his own design/build practice. About 5 years ago Torsten joined me to produce specialized projects for Home San Miguel and complex custom homes for American clients. I found his ability to solve design problems and come up with methods to build Mexican vernacular while maintaining the sophisticated systems of construction from Mexico, Europe, and the US to be an excellent match with me.
If you are a potential client of Torsten’s and wish to know more, please feel free to reach out to me.
Arq. Barry Shapiro, 2020
Rick & Ester Bailey 2019
Hello Barry,
We met briefly at the job site and I want to share the experience that we’ve had working with Torsten on our project ( house # 5 ).
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In my professional life in Seattle I worked closely with the A&D community on the commercial side of interiors. I was fortunate to work at nbbj, a global firm.
My experience in working on high end projects has elevated my expectations for quality and refined details.
Torsten has been a most excellent representative of your firm. In the time that we have worked with him- I have never been frustrated or disappointed in his response and in the quality of the final product. My husband and I laugh because we’re happy after every meeting even when he has told us no.
Torsten is excellent at building trust - the foundation of a strong professional relationship. He goes out of his way to accommodate requests and when he can’t we understand the reasons for his decision. He is joyful to work with.
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We are so happy that we chose to purchase this property and have had the opportunity to work with him! We hear the complaints and challenges our friends have in building their homes and we have had none of those disappointments.
We’re telling all our friends how appreciative we are that our building “ in Mexico” couldn’t have been better!!!
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Rick and I hope that you are doing well- and thank you for providing an excellent product and a delightful experience.
Our best regards,
Ester & Rick, 2019
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Lynn Carlton 2010
I have been remodeling homes for 18 years, having done a total of 36 homes. I have worked with a lot of different people over the course of time.
Torsten has provided me with two of the best experiences of all. Throughout the two remodels we've done together, he's shown exceptional skills in creativity, organization and problem solving.
He really listens and is able to respond to what the client wants. He's generous with his time in working things through. And perhaps best of all, he's completely honest. There's never a worry in that regard. I wouldn't hesitate to hire him again. In fact I can't imagine working with anyone else. He is a gem, a true find. I feel fortunate to have worked with him.
Lynn Carlton 2010
Charles Thomas 2008
Having lived in San Miguel for nearly six years, I’ve had experience with four different architects with varying degrees of satisfaction, most including some level of disappointment. Until recently.
I have just completed a casita renovation, and I would, without reservation, recommend a young architect named Torsten Birk Watts. His attention to detail is exceptional and he has not only the design skills but the project management skills necessary to deliver on his commitments. He is honest, trustworthy, professional and flexible. I was especially impressed when I would come up with an idea and he would disagree. Many people would just do as the client asked, even if they thought it was a bad idea. Torsten would patiently explain which ideas would work, which would not and why. And he is completely bilingual.
So whether it is an upgrade to an existing property or starting from scratch, I’d highly recommend him.
If anyone would like his contact information or a personal reference, please email me directly at chipnsma@hotmail.com
Charles Thomas, 2008