For Hayden Gutierrez ’29, a fascination with the city of Los Angeles and its buildings began when he was just five years old. Over the years, that early curiosity has grown into a deeper appreciation for historic architecture and preservation.

“When I was younger, my favorite place to visit was Downtown Los Angeles. I loved looking at the different shapes and patterns of buildings and how they came together,” Hayden shared. “That grew into an interest in architecture, because I enjoy sketching buildings and skylines.”

That interest eventually led Hayden to the Los Angeles Conservancy, which he first discovered after attending Last Remaining Seats at the historic Million Dollar Theatre in Downtown Los Angeles. Drawn to the organization’s work to preserve historic buildings and the stories and communities connected to them, Hayden began volunteering with the Conservancy in 2025.

Through the Conservancy’s Community Leadership Boot Camp: Next Generation, Hayden researched the historic L.A. Times Mirror Square, including its 1935 Art Deco building, and presented to the board on the need for further protections. His work was later featured in the Spring 2026 issue of the Conservancy’s Landmark magazine.

“Through my experience with the LA Conservancy, I learned about historic preservation in Los Angeles, how to advocate through research and social media awareness, and the importance of these buildings for the communities,” Hayden said.

This past spring, Hayden also participated in Architecture for Communities Los Angeles’ (ACLA) Transform LA program, a hands-on experience that introduces high school students to sustainable architecture and design. 

“ACLA’s Transform LA program taught me how to use sustainable architecture with public spaces to benefit the people who use the space,” Hayden shared. 

Now in his sophomore year at Viewpoint, Hayden is bringing that interest back to campus through Architecture, Art, & Preservation, a new student club focused on the architectural styles and history of buildings throughout Los Angeles.

“I would like students to become aware of and appreciate LA’s culture, history, and significance,” Hayden said. “I have learned that architecture is not just about buildings, it’s about the different communities that surround them.”