Architectural practice in the United States and Peru presents marked differences, especially when comparing the work of historic building rehabilitation in New York with the design of new housing buildings in Peru. Both approaches have their particularities, influenced by the cultural, environmental, and professional context of each country.
Environment and Urban Context
In New York, the rehabilitation of historic buildings demands a deep respect for heritage and careful integration of local conservation regulations. The city has a dense urban environment and a climate that varies considerably between seasons, requiring specific solutions for restoring and adapting old structures. In contrast, in Peru, designing new housing buildings involves facing challenges related to urban sprawl, especially in cities like Lima, where the lack of adequate space and excessive growth require innovative solutions to create functional and affordable housing.
Deadlines and Work Processes
In New York, deadlines for rehabilitation are often strictly defined due to the complexity of the projects and the need to comply with rigorous regulations. On the other hand, in Peru, design deadlines for new housing projects can be more flexible, although they are also subject to administrative challenges, such as obtaining permits and urban planning processes.
Site Visits
In New York, site visits are essential during rehabilitation, with a meticulous focus on evaluating correct construction and restoration processes. In Peru, site visits are also crucial, but the experience tends to be different, as they occur as issues or problems arise that need to be resolved.
Design Competitions
Design competitions are common in both countries, but while in New York they are more frequent in the field of architectural rehabilitation, in Peru they tend to focus on designing new buildings and addressing the growing demand for housing.
Despite these differences, both in the USA and Peru, architects share the commitment to creating spaces that respond to the needs of society, cultural context, and environmental conditions.
