Author Description

There are few cities in the New World that hold as many 16th and 17th century buildings as does Cartagena, Colombia. As a result, it has been designated as part UNESCO's World Heritage program. The Colombian architect Álvaro Barrera was given responsibility for conservation of old Cartagena and half of the two-story houses in the walled district of the city have been restored to a new level of beauty. Restorations by Barrera respect the essence of the colonial period, even as he has adapted structures for 21st century use. His feeling for materials and colors enables him to harmonize the original structures with his contemporary designs. This book will become an standard reference for anyone who is interested in architectural restoration and preservation in an age of innovation.