René Peralta, a lecturer with the Division of Architecture, recently spoke at the American Planning Association 2022 National Planning Conference. Presenting during a session titled “San Diego/Tijuana’s Regional Vision, ‘Temporary Paradise?’”, Peralta discussed Donald Appleyard and Kevin Lynch’s report Temporary Paradise, which discusses Tijuana within a larger urban and sustainable vision. It explores the dynamics that have made the San Diego/Tijuana region into one of the most critical global borders.
The presentation showed how planning can impact and reshape the binational San Diego/Tijuana region, moving it towards greater sustainability, livability, and equity. It also explored why the region was chosen as the 2024 World Design Capital. Those who attended the presentation learned how to best capture the most helpful planning ideas of a city and a region, such as the San Diego/Tijuana area. They were also shown how to create a compelling planning document that endures over time.
René Peralta has given several presentations and done extensive research on the planning of the San Diego/Tijuana region. Read other stories about his work.
Photo credit: Stefan Falke
A team of Construction Science and Architecture students from the Gibbs College of Architecture made their mark on the national stage this week, earning third place out of 37 universities competing at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Student Competition, held during the International Builders' Show in Orlando, February 16-18, 2026.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has elevated Gary Armbruster, FAIA, ALEP to its prestigious College of Fellows—AIA’s highest membership honor—for his exceptional work and sustained contributions to architecture and society. Fellowship recognizes architects who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession and made a significant impact at a national level. Members elevated to this distinction carry the FAIA designation after their name.
Students from the Spring 2026 Graduate 4 Architecture Design Studio, led by Professor Amy Leveno, exhibited their work at the School of Visual Arts. The exhibition, titled Reimagining the OU School of Visual Arts, featured drawings, models, and animations developed throughout the semester's studio project. The show was hosted in The Spotlight, a creative gallery space located on the first floor of the Fred Jones Art Center, and ran from January 20–30, 2026.
