Rafael is a second generation builder and designer. His late father, Don Esteban Cerritos was a contractor, and since an early age, took Rafael with him to work and learn the construction trade. In high school, Rafael excelled in math classes and joined a drafting class. From there, his passion for design exploded. He was chosen by Janet Bussell to be a lead designer for Cher’s home in Malibu. Rafael also apprenticed under the great celebrity architect, Robert L Earl and adopted many of his design styles while developing his own.