Mendes da Rocha’s Houses

A collection of photographs by Leonardo Finotti of a selection of Mendes da Rocha’s houses.

From the Jury Citation of the 2006 Priztker Prize:

Paulo Mendes da Rocha of Sao Paulo, Brazil, inspired by the principles and language of modernism, as well as through his bold use of simple materials, has over the past six decades produced buildings with a deep understanding of the poetics of space. He modifies the landscape and space with his architecture, striving to meet both social and aesthetic human needs.

Adhering to a social vision commensurate with the new world, he reminds us that architecture is foremost a human endeavor inspired by nature’s omnipresence. The vast territory of his country has given this architect a rich lineage to harness and reconcile nature and architecture as congruent forces.

His signature concrete materials and intelligent, yet remarkably straightforward construction methods create powerful and expressive, internationally-recognized buildings. There is no doubt that the raw materials he uses in achieving monumental results have had influences the world over.

Giuseppe Bezzuoli

Saint Filomena

Peach by Raquel Carmona

1. Hilma af Klint, The Dove, no. 12, Series UW 1915