In recent years, technology in construction has generated ostentatious and luxurious buildings, which attract attention and beautify the most important cities in the world. Consequently, this has generated patterns and trends that many countries are following to “modernize,” which has caused many small towns with high historical value to lose their cultural identity. A cultural community center in Moquegua, Peru, is the invitation to produce, disseminate and learn about the cultural heritage of Moquegua to preserve this city with its traditions but with modernity according to its cultural context.

The project is designed under an orthogonal geometry with platforms at different levels, which will be connected by ramps and stairs that will lead to the different educational, cultural and recreational spaces that will be located hierarchically according to the levels of the buildings. The materials will follow the city’s vernacular architecture — mud brick, wood and bamboo — but with improved construction techniques. In conclusion, this project will be a center that will reflect cultural heritage from the composition of its construction to its function as a project, where the old generations will be able to teach the traditions to the new generations of the city and the foreign public to disseminate and maintain the city’s own cultural identity.

The project seeks to summarize the bright colors, geometric patterns and cultural richness inherent in Peruvian textiles. Also, it aims to revalue the traditional architecture of Moquegua’s “mojinetes.” By translating the essence of these fabrics and architecture into spatial elements, the design aims to create a visually attractive, dynamic and cultural environment where each architectural detail weaves a story of tradition and heritage.

Jury Comments

“It’s noteworthy when students extend their design thinking from exterior forms into the interior spaces, and this project does that successfully by bringing exterior concepts inside, creating a cohesive architectural language.”

“The use of pitched roofs, especially in the Peruvian context, is surprising yet effective, drawing parallels to the traditional homes of Machu Picchu while offering a modern reinterpretation. Despite being unexpected, the pitched roof is well-resolved, creating several compelling moments within the design.”

“The materiality is also striking, particularly the selection of tiles, which enhances the cultural depth of the project. The work has a high level of resolution, particularly for a student project, making it a standout in terms of both concept and execution.”