Architecture & Design 2nd Place

These photographs were taken in San Ignacio, Belize, during Andre Tezza’s trip through Central America. The tropical climate and frequent rain directly influence the style of the buildings. Many houses are built on stilts, with wide balconies and sloping zinc roofs, designed to prevent flooding and improve ventilation. The architecture reflects the necessary functionality of the environment, with houses painted in bright colours that, over time, fade due to the sun and humidity. At the end of the day, the streets become silent and the buildings, with their simple and functional style, dominate the scene.

I'm a photographer and university professor in Curitiba, southern Brazil. I have a degree in communication, a master's degree in philosophy and a doctorate in communication sciences. I teach photography for advertising, journalism and design courses.