Climate and Collective Use: Architectural Permeability in Latin America

Architecture is often understood as a matter of enclosure. Walls define space, separating interior from exterior and establishing clear limits. Yet across many projects in Latin America, this distinction becomes less precise. Rather than operating as closed objects, buildings often remain open, allowing air, light, and movement to pass through them.

Pomona House / Hive Architecture

From the outset, the design of this Pomona residence was shaped by a shared appreciation between architect and client for the extraordinary landscape that defines the site. The ambition was straightforward but meaningful — to create a home of careful craft and quiet confidence; one that belongs to its setting rather than imposing upon it.

Tropical Flow / H&P Architects

The house is located in Vinh Ngoc commune (Dong Anh), which has a close connection with the water surface of Phuong Trach lake, Hai Boi lake, and the Red River. This location generates the idea of ​​creating a House from the Flow – an expression of commonly found residential agglomerations along rivers (horizontally) or along waterfalls (vertically).

Renmin Canal Water Conservancy Culture Zhongjiang Memorial Hall / AOMOMO Studio, Shanghai Jiao Tong University

On the basis of the former Chengde Industrial Park in Zhongjiang County, the Deyang Municipal Party Committee and Municipal Government established Deyang Kaizhou New City, and decided to pool the city's strength and focus resources to advance the development of the new city. Kaizhou New City has become another industrial pearl on the eastern foot of Longquan Mountain, following Huaizhou New City, Jianzhou New City and Airport New City. Developed since the Han Dynasty, the Renmin Canal fully demonstrates its evolution from an ancient water conservancy project to a modern large-scale irrigation area. It showcases the technological achievements of water conservancy construction and commemorates the historical memory of the joint efforts of educated youth and local residents.

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