Gender & Space // A Feminist Approach to Urban Design (Mariana Perezanta)
Throughout the semester, we engaged with a series of feminist readings that expanded my perspective as an architect. I came to see feminism not just as the inclusion of women in projects, but as a powerful tool to ask critical questions: What does it mean to build? For whom do we build? How do we build? And where do we build?
These concepts encouraged me to reflect on my home, Mexico—a vibrant and diverse city shaped by its rich historical context, but also deeply influenced by the socio-economic struggles rooted in its colonial past.
My research led me to examine the high-speed freeways that are vital for connecting the sprawling 8 sq km of Mexico City. Upon closer inspection, these vehicular connections reveal themselves as urban margins—dividing lower-income neighborhoods and fostering isolation. Moving forward, I aim to explore how these urban margins can instead serve as connectors, weaving neighborhoods closer together rather than creating divides.
Our studio brought together students from diverse artistic backgrounds, enriching our discussions. Ultimately, our conversations always revolved around one central theme: space.
Author: Mariana Perezanta