The Architect: Rafael Moneo

Rafael Moneo is a Spanish architect born in Tudela, Navarre, in 1937. He is one of the most influential architects of his generation and has received numerous international awards for his work, including the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1996.

Moneo's architecture is characterized by its careful consideration of context and its emphasis on the use of traditional materials and construction techniques. He is known for his ability to design buildings that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, and that respond to the needs of their users and the surrounding environment.

Some of Moneo's most famous works include the Kursaal Congress Center and Auditorium in San Sebastian, Spain, the National Museum of Roman Art in Merida, Spain, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles, California. He has also designed many other notable buildings, including museums, universities, and private residences.

One of Moneo's key design principles is the idea of "timelessness" in architecture. He believes that good architecture should be able to withstand the test of time and should not be tied to any particular style or trend. Instead, he seeks to create buildings that are durable, flexible, and able to adapt to changing needs and conditions over time.

Overall, Rafael Moneo's work is widely respected and admired for its balance between tradition and innovation, its sensitivity to context and culture, and its commitment to creating buildings that are both functional and beautiful.