The interplay between the built environment and the natural environment is a subject that is of particular interest to Siza. His design work has links with the Nordic organicism of Aalto and Utzon and the Dutch rationalism of Oud, with the principles of Neue Sachlichkeit and modern masters such as Le Corbusier and Wright. Siza’s architecture demonstrates the utmost respect for place, adapting itself without prejudice to geographical and social contexts. It uses concrete buildings that avoid excessive abstractionism, in which we can recognise a deep love for materials – including ceramic – together with the refined sophistication of detail and a vague poetic sense that envelops them in serenity. The Portuguese architect’s projects do not have a predetermined language, neither do they aspire to become a language in themselves. Rather, they are a response to concrete problems such as the uncontrived transformation of place.
Įlvaro Siza Vieira is one of the world’s most highly respected architects; his work stands amongst the foremost expressions of international contemporary architecture.
He has lectured as visiting professor at the some of the most prestigious faculties worldwide, including Lausanne, Bogotą and Harvard. His most important projects include: four houses in Matozinhos from 1954 to 1957; the restaurant and two swimming pools at Leēa; the Duarte house in Ovar from 1981-85. In 1985 he was appointed to coordinate the urban remodelling project for the Hague in Holland and directed the Chiado remodelling project in Lisbon from 1988. He also designed the Modern Art Gallery in Porto, the Portugal Pavilion for Expo ’98, two urban housing projects for the Hague, the winning project in the Venice competition for rehabilitation of the Campo di Marte area on the island of Giudecca in 1985, school buildings in Portugal, the Joćo de Deus nursery school in Penafiel and the Higher Education Institute in Setubal.
This meeting with one of the great masters of world architecture once again underlines Cersaie’s role as a major appointment with the world of design and building.
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Bonjour Tristesse, Berlin - Photo by Gabriele Basilico
Faculty of Architecture, Porto - Photo by Gabriele Basilico
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