Jonathan Pizana-Benítez

While growing up in Mexico City, I was surrounded by the rich architectural heritage of pre-Columbian structures and Baroque cathedrals, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and the modern works of Ricardo Legorreta, Juan O’Gorman, Gabriela Carrillo, and, of course, the Brutalist movement, a style that many hate but others like me adore. These influences shaped my passion for creating spaces that embody culture, emotion, and purpose.

My design interests include sustainability, biophilic design, and introspective architecture, focusing on how design can support both human well-being and environmental harmony. Through UNT’s College of Visual Arts and Design, I’ve developed a strong foundation in design theory, research, and material exploration, which continues to guide my creative growth. I aspire to craft meaningful, functional interiors that inspire connection and reflect a deep sense of place.

Avesta UNT Dining Hall: Beyond what the guest can see
This project is grounded in sensory design, wayfinding and universal design, emphasizing that people experience space through multiple senses rather than sight alone.

Research by Charles Spence highlights the importance of multisensory engagement, such as sound, touch, smell, taste and movement, in creating meaningful environments, while wayfinding theories by Robert Arthur, Paul Arthur and Romedi Passini show that clear organization, spatial sequencing and environmental cues improve navigation. For visually impaired users, research indicates that elements such as tactile surfaces and auditory cues enhance independence and reduce confusion. Building on this, universal design principles by Edward Steinfeld and Jordana Maisel advocate for spaces that are accessible, intuitive and equitable for all users. Together, these concepts inform a restaurant design centered on inclusivity, clear navigation and rich multisensory experiences.