Rodrigo Martel Orihuela
Born and raised in Peru, Rodrigo Martel Orihuela is an architectural and urban designer contributing to multidisciplinary projects that bridge architecture, housing, urban design, public policy, and community engagement. Rodrigo holds a Master of Architecture in Urban Design from the Harvard Graduate School of Design, and a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Universidad Ricardo Palma. He’s a licensed architect in Peru and also holds a Diploma in Public Policy from Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú.
Rodrigo’s work focuses on understanding how spatial strategies can advance more equitable, community-driven outcomes—particularly across complex urban environments in the U.S. and Latin America. Before joining Borderless, Rodrigo served as a City Planner V with the City of Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development, supporting planning initiatives along the South Branch of the Chicago River and other neighborhood-scale efforts. He previously worked with the Urban Renewal Program of the Historic Center of Lima, where he helped advance housing recovery strategies informed by his award-winning undergraduate thesis. Earlier professional experiences include work with FD Urbanismo + Arquitectura and Baracco Arquitectos & Ingenieros in Peru. His current work at Borderless includes the Bicentennial Bluffs Choice Neighborhood Plan in Joliet, IL and Englewood Corridors Master Plan in Chicago, IL.