Regulation process of Architecture Competitions in Uruguay, 1900-1930

Abstract

This text ponders on the process of installation and consolidation of the regulations of architectural competitions in Uruguay and in those who promote it. Understanding the regulations and their genesis is a tool to approach the relationships and interests of the architectural community of the country, in a highly significant period for its identity conformation. Between 1900 and 1930 the proposals were varying according to the recommendations of the congresses and the problems that were presented in the competitions. Several moments of interest are identified along the route: the concern of Acosta and Lara (1899-1906), the struggle of the professional associations (Baroffio, 1907, and SAU, 1923), the attempts at regulation from the state (Jones Brown, 1924 and Albo - García Selgas, 1924) and the definitive text of SAU (1929). The SAU regulation published in 1930 is the conclusion of a long and controversial process of discussion in the architectural community of Uruguay, and it determines the ethical ideal in the contests held in the country thereafter.

Keywords

• competition
• legislation
• professional associations
• architects
• history