Maria Alejandra Linares Trelles

Maria Alejandra Linares Trelles is a professor of architecture and interior design at Howard University's College of Fine Arts, where she is affiliated with the Art Department. She is based in Washington, D.C., and New York, actively contributing to architectural education, design practice, and critical research.

Her educational background includes a degree in Architecture from Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP) and a Master of Science in Critical, Curatorial, and Conceptual Practices in Architecture from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation (GSAPP).

Linares Trelles’ research investigates the sociopolitical forces that shape the built environment, with a focus on visual representation and the interplay between institutions, actors, and spatial transformation. A significant thread in her work examines the tension between indigenous spatial knowledge systems and colonial occupation, particularly in Peruvian territories including Machu Picchu. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates design, writing, and curation to challenge dominant narratives in architecture.

Although no specific publications are listed, her research output has been featured in The Avery Review, Planur-e magazine, Tropical Papers, and the 2021 Venice Biennale’s Expansions exhibition, indicating a strong presence in critical architectural discourse.

She has taught design studios and seminars at institutions including The New School, Pratt Institute, Columbia University, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP), and Universidad Andrés Bello, demonstrating broad academic engagement across the Americas.

Her professional experience includes roles at Andrés Jaque / Office for Political Innovation, the Buell Center, studio Llonazamora, and the Archivo de Arquitectura PUCP. In 2016, she was appointed as one of the lead architects for the design of the new Visitor Center at the Machu Picchu archaeological site, highlighting her recognition in architectural practice.

Linares Trelles does not list any formal advisees or scientific awards in the provided text, nor is there evidence of grant funding or lab affiliations. However, her curatorial and research work suggests collaborative team-based projects, particularly in exhibition and archival contexts.