In the heart of Madrid, a building stands as a testament to architectural evolution and innovation. The Castelar building, with its suspended glass façade, is not just a structure but a symbol of how one family’s studio, Rafael de La-Hoz, has been at the forefront of modern architecture in Spain. The studio’s journey, from its inception in 1920 to its current projects, is a narrative of adaptation, innovation, and a deep-seated commitment to sustainability and technological integration.
Rafael de La-Hoz Castanys, the current leader of the studio, has steered the firm towards a contemporary architectural language that emphasizes volumetric clarity, sustainability, and the expressive use of materials and light. This shift is not merely aesthetic but a strategic response to the evolving needs of the energy sector and the global push towards sustainable construction.
The studio’s projects, such as the Rey Juan Carlos Hospital in Móstoles and the Repsol Campus, exemplify this approach. These buildings are not just functional spaces but also symbols of technological innovation and efficiency. The Repsol Campus, for instance, is a stark reminder of how architecture can integrate symbolic value with functional efficiency, a trend that is increasingly gaining traction in the energy sector.
Luis Palmero, from the Universitat Politècnica de València, in his interview with Rafael de La-Hoz Castanys published in ‘Vitruvio: International Journal of Architectural Technology and Sustainability’ (which translates to ‘Vitruvius: International Journal of Architectural Technology and Sustainability’), delves into the studio’s methodology and its impact on the architectural landscape. Palmero highlights how the transition from one generation to the next has not been about repeating aesthetics but about continuing a rigorous methodological approach.
“This is not about repeating the past but about building on it,” says Rafael de La-Hoz Castanys. “We design architecture that is both rational and poetic, capable of engaging in dialogue with the city, the landscape, and the human being.”
The studio’s international projects, from Morocco to Colombia, further underscore this point. These projects address not just the immediate needs of the clients but also the broader context of climate, identity, and history. This holistic approach is increasingly becoming a benchmark in the energy sector, where buildings are expected to be more than just functional spaces but also symbols of sustainability and innovation.
The studio’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its projects, which often incorporate energy-efficient designs and materials. This focus on sustainability is not just a response to global trends but also a strategic move to stay ahead in the increasingly competitive energy sector.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and energy efficiency, the work of Rafael de La-Hoz and his studio offers valuable insights. Their approach to architecture, which combines functionality, sustainability, and symbolic value, could shape the future of the energy sector. By integrating these elements, buildings can become not just spaces but also symbols of a sustainable future.
In a world where the energy sector is increasingly looking towards sustainable and innovative solutions, the work of Rafael de La-Hoz and his studio offers a compelling narrative. Their projects, from the iconic Castelar building to the Repsol Campus, are not just structures but symbols of a future where architecture and sustainability go hand in hand. As the world continues to evolve, the work of Rafael de La-Hoz and his studio will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the energy sector.