Articles by Enrique Tovar

Before the emergence of AI, the internet, and TV— books and manuscripts were the primary vessels of knowledge. These artifacts, now echoing voices from the past, have played a fundamental role in shaping our shared legacy. A pivotal moment in this evolution came in the 15th century with Gutenberg’s invention of the printing press, which revolutionized access to information and laid the groundwork for the democratization of knowledge. As a result of their historical and cultural significance, many early manuscripts and incunabula (books printed during the earliest period of typography) have been preserved in libraries and often remained in the shadows.

Barragán, Bofill, Graves, and Le Corbusier are architects renowned for their exceptional and sensitive use of color. In their approaches, color takes on an importance comparable almost to functionality, achieved through a nuanced and comprehensive perception of their context. But what is color? From a technical standpoint, it is a visual perception that arises from the interaction of light with our eyes and brain. However, when we explore its meaning on a more emotional and poetic level, it takes on a deeper significance. For Ricardo Bofill, color infuses life into architecture, while for Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, —better known as Le Corbusier—, it serves as a powerful tool to evoke emotions and create spatial illusions.

It’s often said that trends come back, but terrazzo appears to be the exception—never truly fading from popularity. With a long tradition of craftsmanship, terrazzo has maintained its relevance over the centuries, continuously adapting to evolving creative expressions. Whether in homes, restaurants, or libraries, it demonstrates remarkable versatility, offering a unique combination of technical qualities, mottled aesthetic, and timeless appeal. As it evolves, terrazzo adapts to modern building standards and growing environmental awareness, ensuring its relevance in contemporary architecture and design while expanding sustainable solutions.

Nowadays, diversity and inclusion stand as fundamental pillars in the design of spaces, guiding the creation of structures that adapt to the needs of all individuals. This comprehensive approach addresses the functionality of buildings aiming to transform every aspect of design, promoting accessibility from scratch. A key milestone in this matter was the establishment of legislation such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the US. This document established a legal framework to prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities and set a precedent for promoting the design of public spaces and services that are accessible to all.

Crisis, crisis, crisis… and guess what? More crises. Every time we hear that word, it all feels more daunting. But here’s the thing: with every challenge comes an opportunity. From the affordable housing shortage to the economic downturn and the climate emergency, there’s always a new challenge, opening the door to new possibilities. But the truth is, none of these are isolated events; they’re all interconnected in some way, forming different facets of the same story. Perhaps one of the least mentioned, particularly when it comes to the built environment, is the global food crisis, which is growing (almost) silently, waiting to take center stage. It poses various challenges for future food production, especially in cities.

The sun is an inescapable partner in architecture, influencing lighting, energy efficiency, and comfort inside and outside buildings. This influence has become increasingly relevant in the context of climate change, which has led to rising temperatures and the creation of challenging environments. In response, designers are constantly working to adapt cities to heatwaves through large-scale urban strategies. On a smaller scale, such as in residential settings, the issue can be addressed more specifically through various shading solutions.

Italy’s influence on contemporary design has been profound and captivating, with Italian architecture consistently bridging cultural heritage and innovation, from advancements in construction techniques to the evolution of the neoclassical style. A prime example of this integration is the Italian villa typology, which reached its zenith during the Renaissance with groundbreaking innovations. Villa Almerico —designed by Andrea Palladio and inspired by Alberti’s treatise De re aedificatoria— exemplifies this evolution. Renowned for its centralized and symmetrical plan, its construction marked a turning point with classical proportions and the incorporation of courtyards and gardens as extensions of the living space, highlighting a remarkable contextual relationship.

Reflecting on the past is often viewed as nostalgia or, from a more critical standpoint, as a sign of regression. However, looking back can offer valuable insights into a society that sometimes appears overly focused—if not obsessed—with the future and technology. In architecture, this reflection allows us to reconnect with our roots and appreciate the knowledge accumulated over generations. It invites us to explore how our ancestors designed durable structures adapted to their environment. Refined through centuries of observation, experimentation, and likely even errors, these systems demonstrate a profound understanding of local materials and building techniques.

Regardless of the region, parks and public spaces offer a refreshing escape from bustling urban environments, providing a momentary pause from the fast pace of life. Designed for collective benefit, they serve as dynamic ecosystems where recreation and relaxation seamlessly integrate into the visitor experience. But what is the challenge in designing these spaces? Being perceptive enough to find the balance that meets diverse demands while ensuring accessibility, comfort, and safety. As Austrian-American architect Richard Neutra once said, “If you have to design for people, you have to observe them, understand them, and sympathize with them.”

Like a musical composition, there is a particular category of buildings whose history might be compared to an unfinished symphony. Alternating between high notes and moments of silence, these structures are intermittent narratives that have spanned centuries. One of the most emblematic cases is the Sagrada Familia, which has been under construction for over a century and is on track to be completed this decade. While a hundred years of construction is no small feat, another building in this group surpasses that range: the Cathedral of Málaga, located in southern Spain, has been in the making for over five centuries.