Tulum Hosts First Caribbean Architecture Biennial

Tulum, Q. Roo — With the confirmation of participants from 17 countries, Tulum is preparing to host the first edition of the Caribbean International Architecture Biennial, an event that will bring together architects, urban planners, academics, and students in an unprecedented space for cultural and professional dialogue in the region.

Guadalupe Portilla Manica, president of the Tulum College of Architects A.C., highlighted that the biennial seeks to promote creativity and architectural innovation from a regional perspective. "It is a meeting that celebrates talent and promotes international collaboration," she stated, underscoring the relevance of Tulum as the host city due to its cultural, archaeological, and touristic value.

The program includes conferences, exhibitions, and working groups in which topics such as sustainable architecture in the face of climate change, heritage conservation, design in coastal and island environments, and the integration of local culture into contemporary projects will be addressed. The participation of renowned international architects is expected, as well as young talents who will present innovative projects and proposals.

The municipal president of Tulum, Diego Castañón Trejo, celebrated the selection of the municipality as the host and emphasized that this type of meeting is essential to promote sustainable development. "Tulum is characterized by growth where sustainability is prioritized, and this event reinforces that vision," he expressed.

For his part, Doctor of Architecture Manuel Alfonso Jesús Barrero Gutiérrez, president of the Riviera Maya College of Architects A.C., explained that the call for entries, open since August 1, will allow for the participation of architects with work in the Caribbean, regardless of their country of origin. Proposals must be sent in digital format, with explanatory panels and up to ten photographs or renders.

The judging panel will evaluate the projects in September and October, and the awards ceremony will take place on November 21 at the Hilton hotel in Tulum. In total, works will be recognized in 25 categories encompassing housing, public space, tourism, hotels, museums, academic theses, and projects in development. Additionally, a main prize will be awarded for the best work across all categories, along with honorable mentions.

The president of the Tulum College of Architects extended an invitation to media, professionals, investors, and the general public to participate in this experience which, she said, positions Tulum as a strategic meeting point between the insular and continental Caribbean.