Paulo Mendes da Rocha (1928 – Present)
Brazilian architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha is known for socially responsible architecture that uses simple shapes and minimal resources. Paulo Mendes da Rocha often called a “Brazilian Brutalist” because his buildings are constructed of prefabricated and mass-produced concrete components.
During the 1950s, Paulo Mendes da Rocha joined an avant-garde movement in São Paulo, Brazil. His work, known as Paulist brutalist architecture, used simple shapes and materials. Importance was placed on people and society rather than ornamentation.
Besides his architectural projects, Mendes da Rocha has designed furniture. He is best known for the Paulistano chair and chaise lounge which used industrial materials to create comfortable, functional seating.
In 2000 the Mies van der Rohe Prize for Latin American Architecture brought Paulo Mendes da Rocha international recognition. He won the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2006.
Outstanding Work:
1987: Chapel of Saint Peter, Campos de Jordão
1988: Brazilian Museum of Sculpture, São Paulo
1992: Patriarch Plaza and Viaduct do Cha, São Paulo
1993: State Museum of São Paulo
1995: Residence for Mario Masetti, Cava Estate, Cabreuva
2000: Studies for the 2008 Olympic Games in Paris, France
2004: Master plan for the Technological City, University of Vigo, Spain
