A Spotlight on Design Driven Stories — CEO of World Design 2024 San Diego — Tijuana, Carlos de la Mora

The Finest City

This episode features Carlos de la Mora, immediate-past CEO of World Design Capital 2024, San Diego-Tijuana. Carlos brings a rich and varied professional background to the table, including his previous experience as the Executive Director for the Urban Land Institute in Mexico and Director of Land Development at CBRE. Throughout the conversation, Carlos talks about the intention of purpose and legacy behind the World Design programming, along with a few of the activations and installations he is looking forward to. He shares more about welcoming all types of design into the fold, a little glimpse into the “secret sauce” of his leadership, and how this opportunity can help us improve cross-border relations.

Timestamps:

[1:47] Carlos shares his nonlinear career path, including architecture school, art exhibits, video production, and working in the Baja wine industry.

[4:30] What unique responsibility does the World Design Capital selection bring?

[4:48] San Diego-Tijuana is the first cross-border region to be designated as a World Design Capital.

[5:12] Using this time also to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Temporary Paradise.

[6:24] A few of the partners that worked to bring the concept to life, including the UCSD Design Lab.

[9:36] What is the “secret sauce” that Carlos feels he adds to the mix?

[10:38] How not only city design, but design in many other aspects, will be featured in 2024 programming. All expressions of design are welcome.

[11:37] A few of the installations and activations that Carlos is looking forward to at the border during WDC, including one by artist Chico MacMurtrie called “Border Crossers.”

[15:36] WDC helps provide visibility and opportunities for connection, and it’s important to use it to advance important community issues.

[17:40] What kind of lasting impact does Carlos hope the World Design Capital will have on our region and cross-border relations?

[18:21] Learning and gathering inspiration from other World Design cities.

[22:28] Ways to get involved in the World Design Capital.

About C-3

Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3’s leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3’s role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community.

Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement:

C3sandiego.org

World Design Capital

Carlos de la Mora LinkedIn

Design Policy Conference