Reading time: 5 minutes.
Publication date: 29/01/2025
The sixth and final episode of the first season of GP Talks, the video podcast by Estudio Gómez Platero Arquitectura & Urbanismo, delved into the role of urban heritage as a cornerstone in shaping the cultural identity of cities. Titled "Identity and Urban Heritage: The Role of Urban Renewal," the episode explored how architectural and urban interventions can revitalize historic spaces, balancing the preservation of cultural legacy with modern demands.
Hosted by journalist Malena Castaldi, the episode featured distinguished guests: William Rey Ashfield, General Director of the National Heritage Commission, and Arturo de los Santos, Director of Preliminary Design at Estudio Gómez Platero. Colombian consultant Jorge Melguizo also contributed through a recorded message, adding a valuable external perspective.
The discussion examined how cities can harmonize heritage preservation with contemporary needs, citing global examples like Hudson Yards in New York. William Rey Ashfield emphasized that urban renewal should enrich cities culturally, spatially, and urbanistically: "A city is not a frozen snapshot of the past; it evolves through thoughtful interventions. New architecture must add value to the urban fabric." He also highlighted the cultural responsibility of engaging with a site's history and values.
Arturo de los Santos expanded on this by framing heritage as a dynamic, evolving concept: "Built heritage reflects values that communities consider essential. It’s not just about preserving the past but creating a dialogue between history and the present to shape the future." He stressed the emotional and cultural connections between communities and their spaces, noting that these relationships should guide interventions.
Jorge Melguizo provided a complementary perspective, advocating for transforming inheritances into new forms of heritage. He remarked: "Heritage is not what we have; it’s what we build. Our responsibility is to turn inheritances into future opportunities that reflect the values of our society."
The episode tackled themes like revitalizing obsolete spaces, balancing innovation with preservation, and the role of communities in validating heritage. The guests agreed that successful urban renewal requires a comprehensive approach that respects history while adapting to contemporary needs.
In closing, William Rey Ashfield summarized the conversation: "The goal is not to fossilize the past, but to enrich it with thoughtful and culturally meaningful interventions that resonate today and project into the future."
The full episode of GP Talks is available on YouTube and Spotify.
Learn more about the video podcast here.
