Meet Bernie | Architect and photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bernie and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bernie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After graduating from the University of Houston’s School of
Architecture, I began blending photography into my design
process—using it as a visual tool to capture ideas and
environments that could inspire and inform my architectural
concepts.
I started my professional journey at a major architectural firm in
Houston, but it didn’t take long to realize that my creative vision
didn’t quite fit within the guidelines of their traditional projects.
While they saw my ideas as unconventional—even a little “crazy”
—I was passionate about designing nightclubs and restaurants
with creative spaces where people could connect, escape, and
have fun.
So I took a leap of faith and started my own business—and that’s
when the real journey began.
Starting a business from the ground up wasn’t easy. There were
plenty of challenges, especially learning how to navigate client
relationships. But with time, things began to fall into place. I
started attracting clients who were searching for something
different: bold, creative, standout designs for nightclubs, bars, and
restaurants that offered more than just a place to go—they offered
an experience to enjoy.
Photography remained at the heart of my creative process. In
many of our projects, we use original photo-based artwork as part
of the décor, making each space truly unique. Over time, this
passion grew into a second business: producing high-impact
photography for real estate projects including hotels, resorts, and
private residences. That path led to further opportunities—like
being recognized in international photography competitions by
National Geographic and the Smithsonian, and the chance to
travel the world, camera in hand, learning from diverse cultures
and landscapes.
My son Tomás has joined me on many of these adventures, He
helped shape my creative journey and constantly inspire me to
see the world with fresh eyes ( 4yes)
Now, more than 30 years into running my own business, I’ve
learned this simple truth: when you follow your passion…. life
turns into an amazing journey !
4EYESPHOTO.COM

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Arcostudio’s story is one of fearless experimentation, we broke away from traditional design to pursue a more dynamic and expressive path…..fusing Architecture, Photography, and Media into a bold form of visual storytelling where design becomes an immersive experience….Architecture meets Art !
Our spaces are alive—each one is carefully curated to evoke emotions, and bring people together.
From high-energy nightclubs to soulful restaurants, every project is a canvas where creativity takes center stage.
Arcostudio’s rise wasn’t smooth—we tripped, regrouped, and kept moving until our bold ideas caught the right eyes.
Those hard‑earned lessons forged a Studio Team that now attracts clients looking for unique Designs
ARCOSTUDIO.COM

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Here’s a Plan for the visit

-Rent B‑cycle and cruise the Buffalo Bayou Park trail network. Book a guided walk inside the haunting underground Cistern
-Almond‑croissant run at Bādolina Bakery, then dive into the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Walk to the light‑filled Menil Collection
-Drive to Space Center Houston. Grab timed‑entry tram tickets first to see Mission Control + the gargantuan Saturn V.
-Day trip to Galveston: historic Strand, Bryan Museum, seawall strolls.
-Paddle a rental kayak on Hermann Park’s lake, then walk over to Rice University’s James Turrell Skyspace
-Explore Downtown Houston
-Visit the Galleria

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My son Tomás helped shape my creative journey and constantly
inspire me to see the world with fresh eyes.
We have worked together on many projects.
A creative wizard and multi-talented photographer and visual
storyteller,…….Currently working as the Marketing Director for a
Nationwide Real Estate Group,
His work doesn’t just showcase spaces—it sells lifestyles,
captivating buyers at first glance….Amazing work !
Tomas has also worked as the Director of Photography for
various film projects. His career includes photography expeditions
with National Geographic, where he explored and captured the
world through his lens.
TMEDINA.COM

Website: www.4eyesphoto.com www.Arcostudio.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomas-medina-29203557

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BernardoMedinaPhotography/

Image Credits
All Photos created by 4eyesphoto