The architecture of singlehood

Gil Coscolluela’s relatives in the field of architecture and design have an immense influence on Gil. W.V. Coscolluela & Associates – a firmed owned by Gil’s father – was involved in the construction of the RCBC Building on Ayala Avenue, the new Philamlife Tower on Paseo de Roxas and the World Trade Center on Roxas Boulevard. As head designer for the Coscolluela firm, Gil, 34, had the pleasure of working with the international teams assigned to oversee those buildings. His job revolved around the planning and completion of those mega-projects.

Our bachelor is also excited about the success of Shiraz in Makati. The trendy wine bar gives Gil the chance to combine business with the pleasure of hanging out with friends. Coscolluela is planning Shiraz’s first anniversary celebration this October together with his nine partners.

A graduate of UP Architecture, Gil pauses to reflect on Donald Trump, a woman’s hands, and wanting to be Spiderman.

What is the first thing you look at when you meet a woman?

Her hands. If she can take care of her hands, then she can take care of herself and be an independent person.

How do you resolve your conflicts?

I like to work alone. I can make decisions quicker and move at a faster pace, so I limit the number of people involved. When I work with someone, we sit down and see if we have rapport and can meet halfway.

Which hero of fiction can you most identify with?

Spiderman. He can climb buildings. There are certain parts of the construction I would like to see more closely.

Who or what is the greatest love of your life?

My work. Playing with materials like concrete.

What is your passion?

Designing. Architecture.

What sports do you like most?

I am a Class A squash player at the Polo Club. I alternate this with working out in the gym.

What book influenced your life?

The Autobiography of Donald Trump. The book describes his rise from rags to riches. I always wanted to get into real estate development.

What is your greatest fear?

Not getting married might be one.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

Stubbornness. You have to prove something first before I change my mind about it.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

Stubbornness. Many clients aspire to be designers.

What do you dislike most about your appearance?

Maybe my height at 5’6".

What do you most value in your friends?

Their company. And I have a lot of friends.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Enjoying what I do.

Which historical character would you like to have been?

Frank Lloyd Wright, a well-known designer/architect.

Name a moment that brings back happy memories.

A trip to Europe with my father and two brothers when I was in first year high school. We traveled for a whole month through Italy, London and Spain.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Having a family. Providing for that family and seeing that they are happy.

What do you most do with your hands?

I scribble and draw a lot. When ideas come to mind, I request a piece of paper and borrow a pen or sketch in my diary.

Who greets you when you get home?

My computer.