I'm just back in from Puerto Rico and I thought I'd give a quick update before I completely pass out from the travelling (and this impending storm that's ripping through most of the Eastern Caribbean)

The conference went well... very well. It was a chance to meet with many old dear friends that practice around the region and share our ideas and works.

Marc Jalet from the Guadeloupe based practice Pile et Face (with Emile Romney) was the other keynote speaker from the first night who spoke about a series of housing interventions in the capital city Pointe Pitre. He has truly become a beacon for social housing that is fully responsive to culture, climate, and context

The city of Ponce is a beautiful and idyllic city, with contrasts between old and new. I stayed at the Ramada, which surprisingly is in what was described as a converted hacienda. Much of the original look and feel has been maintained and conceals a more modern 4 story block to the rear.

My hosts from the Escuela de Arquitectura, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Puerto Rico have much to be proud of with their school. Aside from the first rate facilities from Teknion and Hp the quality of tutorship is of a considerable level and we expect to see more as the school develops in the years to come.

Now for the pictures...

1. Ponce mobile sign parked infront of the plaza
2. Marc Jalet (Pile et Face)
3. Escuela de Arquitectura
4. Sketches and notes during presentations
5. Street signs
6. Deco Moderne details
7. Hacienda details
8. Old & New
9. Hotel Ramada