Q&A with Paul Chaca: En Masse Architectural Designer

What drew you to architecture and design?

My dad is a handyman, building and fixing things around the house. He would always design things- never on paper. He would just grab two-by-fours and plywood and just begin building. I would help him, and this drew me to design and creating. 

Where do you find inspiration now? 

It comes from Chicago. I love walking around different neighborhoods and seeing the different architecture that is happening all over. I also love woodworking and furniture, so I find a lot of inspiration from vintage furniture shops. 

What is the first step to creating a thoughtful design?

The first step is hearing how clients live their day-to-day lives and understanding their needs and personalities. As designers, we don’t see how people actually live, so it is our job to create spaces that stay true to them by asking the right questions. 

Can you tell me about your favorite places in your home? Where do you find the most joy?

Our living room is where I find the most joy, for sure. This is where I have my DJ gear set up. It’s nice having friends over and enjoying each other's company.

We just bought a new home, and I have so many things I want to do. My wife and I have pet bunnies. First things first, I’m going to build a banquet in the living room that's going to hide our bunnies' litter box.

What’s your favorite stage of a project? 

I enjoy the construction document stage, and getting into all of the little details of the planning. With a modern cabin we’re working on, I had a lot of fun working on the exterior details of the project. It’s very satisfying to me. Another project that I’m working on is a condo in a vintage building on Lake Shore Drive. The millwork here is incredible, and I can’t wait to see it all come together.

What is the most exciting challenge of a project?

I like being involved in the coordination of all phases of a project. It’s fun and feels like I’m completing a puzzle. While I enjoy the drawings, I enjoy the challenge of coordination and making sure we follow through with our design intentions.

What's your dream project?  

I’d like to create for someone who is multifaceted and has a lot of different interests. I’d like the challenge of helping that shine through their space and allowing them to use their home to meet their personal and professional goals. It is always great to have the relationship to collaborate and be open to creating a cool project together. 

If you could have dinner with anyone who would it be?

I’d probably say Donald Glover. He’s a modern renaissance man. He acts, plays music, directs, and writes. I admire how he can balance different creative interests and be good at everything. For myself, I love architecture, I love woodworking, and DJing. I've balanced everything pretty well, and I’d love to continue progressing- so hopefully he can give me his secret.