Abstract

The delineation of a territory and the partition of its inhabitants by geographic boundaries creates a blurred space for learning and knowledge construction in which local identities are shaped. This article examines architectural expressions along the US–Mexico border between 1900 and 1950 in an attempt to identify a point of convergence between diverse cultural manifestations occurring both within and outside of territorial boundaries. It presents an overview of intercultural building practices at the Calexico–Mexicali border-crossing based on the cultural history of architecture. A comparison between historical and contemporary photographs of the US–Mexico border is conducted to determine whether they are similar in terms of style and timeliness. Visual methods are useful in uncovering nuanced historical and contemporary narratives. Study findings reveal four main intercultural dynamics in cross-border architecture: continuity in urban forms, international exchange of building systems, co-creation of architectural styles, and cross-border interaction in everyday life. Intercultural architecture plays a critical role in fostering sociopolitical exchange, economic transformation, and cross-border identities.