The architecture within a city symbolizes the history as well as the economic, social, cultural and political space of the city which displays a variety of characteristics within the country. Caribbean islands are developing economies which have been striving to reach the goal of development since their Independence. Overtime, these cities gradually progresses towards being developed, however; the poverty and informal economy still remain and also increase.

Like majority of developing countries, the city of Port of Spain in Trinidad experiences and exceptional growth rate which is a result of the overpopulation and the lack of employment opportunities in the rural areas of the country. As a result of these push factors; there is high population density within the city. Persons move to the city in an effort to get good jobs and build careers for themselves, however; it is not guaranteed. Therefore, an informal economy is developed. A percentage of the urban economy that is not able to fine regular paid work result in alternative routes to make a living. As seen in the picture taken in Port of Spain, alternative routes range from street vending; to searching in garbage bins as a mechanism to feed clothe and house themselves.

The design of the most prominent building in this picture is the “Drapery and Upholstery” is built with concrete, designed with glass and symmetric appearance. Pillars are situated within the building where the outline can be seen from outside. The condition of the building appears old and the paint is slowly deteriorating. There are a number of vendors along these buildings which would give the impression of inappropriate or illegal activities. The picture capturing its location, design and function can give a timeline of the development and complexities in the urban Caribbean space. For example, the buildings with their businesses attract small associated vendors, who by observations of their architecture are persons in the lower class status. They may as well be originated in rural areas and came in Charlotte Street to sell agricultural and material goods. Urban areas attract prospects for economic gain and therefore create a high density area filled with vendors along the congested sidewalk. It is difficult to walk on the sidewalk, resulting in persons being forced to walk in the middle of the road where vehicles also pass. Congestion also cause litter and waste material that give the area an unpleasant appearance. On the other side of the road is a man who seems to be searching for food in discarded boxes. The observations made in Charlotte Street is the informal sector, when designed in a less economic fashion, this will affect how the urban space functions. The fashion of the architecture of these vendors can infer higher possibilities of having pollution, pest, and homeless persons in that area.