Julio César Pérez is a Cuban architect and urban planner. An art gallery is showing examples of his work, a perfect occasion to reflect back on what matters in architecture and planning, and lay out his vision for the future of Cuba.
Pérez has a 10-point program for Havana's future growth and development, including "A Stronger Polycentric Approach," Mixed Use" and "Waterfront Redevelopment."
When asked about his approach to architecture, Pérez answered holistically:
"For me, the practice of architecture begins with the relationship between the natural or cultural environment, which is an indivisible whole, and the human being. The city is the most important element, as it is an expression of human relationships and the essential cultural archetype. My interests are broad, and I renounce the reductionist vision and specialization that has done much harm to this profession everywhere. The architect must always be a Renaissance man who acts responsibly in his or her own time; he has to deal with both the eternal problems and the contemporary conflicts arising from his concrete circumstances."
Read the full story: Julio César Pérez: “The city must be dreamed, designed and conceived for the future”
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City of Rosemead
Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
One Hundred Miles
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
City of Cambridge
Montrose County
The Pocatello Development Authority