ALEJANDRO ARAVENA: The Architect of the People Poor?
- Arq. Pablo Vazquez
- May 1
- 12 min read
Author: Pablo Vazquez.
A lover of discovering new places and a workaholic, in short, an architect.
Alejandro Aravena, a world-renowned Chilean architect, has revolutionized contemporary architecture with his unique approach to social housing. With his vision, he has transformed the way we understand the role of architecture in society. He is not only known for his innovative work, but also for his ability to involve communities in the design process.
Alejandro Gastón Aravena Morin was born on June 22, 1967 in Santiago, Chile, into a middle-class family with two teacher parents. It was a time when Christian democracy dominated Chilean politics, but it was also a period of deep social and political tensions. The rise of the communist movement in Cuba was inspiring many, and revolution seemed to be an imminent necessity. Revolutionary ideas were gaining strength and, as part of this ideology, communist leaders advocated the use of violence to achieve power.
Although Aravena was only 3 to 6 years old between 1970 and 1973, this context marked his formation. At that time, revolutionary ideals were reflected not only in politics, but also in youth culture. Many young people adopted the movement's own aesthetics: military-style clothing, boots, olive green or gray pants, beards and berets. Alejandro, still a child, seemed to be influenced by this fashion, as can be seen in some of his early photos. In this image, one can already notice how, with his clothes and attitude, Aravena anticipated the values of simplicity and functionality that would later characterize his work.
However, this period of political effervescence was abruptly interrupted. In 1973, Chile suffered a coup d'état that installed a military dictatorship under the leadership of Augusto Pinochet, which changed the course of the country for the next 17 years. This regime not only profoundly altered democracy, but also severely affected the country's educational system. During the years of dictatorship, the state implemented reforms that decentralized education, leading to the creation of private universities and a municipalization of public schools.
This context of change and repression, of a regression in freedoms and social tensions, directly influenced the young Aravena's vision of the world. Although he was still a child, he was already beginning to become aware of inequalities, and in his architectural work later on, these contrasts between the simple and the complex, the public and the private, were recurring themes.
As he grew up, Alejandro Aravena began to make decisions that would mark his professional future. In 1985, he entered the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile to study architecture, one of the most prestigious universities in his country. Here, Aravena immersed himself in an academic environment where technical training and critical thinking were intertwined with the social and political realities of the time.
During his training, Aravena became interested in social architecture, a field that would allow him a direct approach to the needs of underprivileged people and communities. While traditional architecture focused on large, luxurious projects, he saw the need for architecture that responded to social crises and was accessible to all.
Despite the restrictions of his time, his vision was already beginning to take shape. Aravena was deeply interested in social work and public housing, and his ability to connect architecture with social reality set him on a unique trajectory within the profession.
In 1992, after completing his studies, Aravena began working on various projects in Chile and abroad. But it was in 2001, when he founded his own architectural firm, Elemental, that his focus on social architecture really took off.”
After opening his studio in 1994, Alejandro Aravena founded ELEMENTAL S.A. in 2001 with architect Andrés Lacobeli in Santiago, Chile, and has served as CEO since 2006. In this studio, Aravena began to focus his attention on projects of public interest and high social impact, not only in Chile, but also in places such as the United States, Mexico, China and Switzerland.
ELEMENTAL is characterized by promoting the improvement of social conditions by working in the infrastructure, public spaces and housing sectors, through the realization of experimental works that serve the most marginalized communities in countries such as Chile and Mexico.
In these projects, Aravena and his team worked in extreme situations, with limited resources and in precarious conditions, but their focus was always clear: to build accessible and functional housing solutions for the most disadvantaged segments of the population.
In many of these projects, Aravena proposed the model of 'participatory projection' or 'incremental design', in which families who received basic housing could gradually expand it according to their capabilities and economic availability. This innovative idea not only encouraged self-construction, but also generated a sense of belonging and empowerment in the communities.
A TOUR OF HIS WORKS:
Throughout his career, Alejandro Aravena has developed a series of architectural projects that have transformed the way we understand socially committed architecture. Below, we review some of the most outstanding works of his career.
1. Faculty of Mathematics - Universidad Pontificia Católica del Chile (1999)
In collaboration with Luis Lucero, this work stands out for its innovative approach to the integration of form and function. Aravena manages to combine practical elements with a distinctive design, highlighting his ability to address architectural challenges with a socially responsible vision.
2. Quinta Monroy Residential Complex, Iquique (2004)
A landmark in social architecture, this project revolutionized social housing in Chile. Through the incremental design methodology, Aravena allowed families to expand their homes according to their needs and resources, promoting the active participation of the community.
3. School of Medicine - Universidad Pontificia Católica del Chile (2004)
In collaboration with Fernando Perez, this work is distinguished by its functionality and aesthetics. The faculty is intelligently integrated into the campus, optimizing natural light and creating spaces that favor interaction and collaboration among students.
4. Siamese Towers - Catholic Pontifical University of Chile (2005)
Designed in collaboration with C. Murray, A. Montero and R. Torrejón, these two towers joined at the base are an example of Aravena's ability to maximize the efficient use of space, fusing contemporary aesthetics with functional solutions.
5. Residential Complex, Renca, Santiago (2007)
Another example of Aravena's socially responsible architecture, this project addresses the need for affordable housing for low-income families, emphasizing resident participation in the design.
6. New Residence Hall and Dining Halls at St. Edward's University, Austin (2008)
Collaborating with Ricardo Torrejón, this project stands out for its innovative approach to the design of residential and dining spaces, providing an environment that fosters social interaction and student well-being.
7. Complejo residencial con 159 habitaciones, Temuco (2008)
This project focuses on creating affordable and efficient housing, maximizing the use of space and providing an environment that fosters social cohesion.
8. Kunstmuseum Expansion Project, Basel (2009)
This project demonstrates Aravena's ability to integrate the new with the old, respecting the identity of the original museum while expanding its capabilities. The work creates a dialogue between history and modernity.
9. Mirador Las Cruces, Durango, Mexico (2010)
This project is presented as a sanctuary of rest for pilgrims, taking advantage of the geography of the site to offer panoramic views and a unique experience of connection with nature.
10. Residential Complex with 150 rooms, Lo Barnechea, Santiago (2010)
In this project, Aravena addresses the need for affordable housing with an approach that integrates efficiency, natural light and community participation.
11. Masterplan of the city of Constitución, Chile (2010)
An ambitious project to revitalize the post-earthquake city, Aravena integrates infrastructure, public space and community participation, creating a resilient and sustainable urban plan.
12. Villa Verde Complex, Constitución (2010)
This residential complex not only addresses the need for social housing, but also contributes to the revitalization of the local community, with a focus on resilience to natural disasters.
13. Municipal Theater, Constitución (2012)
Aravena demonstrates his ability to create cultural spaces that fuse aesthetics and functionality, integrating the theater into the social life of the city.
14. Bicentennial Children's Park, Santiago (2012)
A public space designed for children, the park stands out for its inclusive and educational approach, encouraging creativity and learning in a natural environment.
15. UC Innovation Center, Santiago (2014)
This space seeks to foster collaboration and creativity within the academic community, with a flexible and energy-efficient design.
16. Ayelén School, Rancagua (2015)
An educational project designed to foster interaction among students, with a participatory approach that involves the community in the design process.
17. Calama Plus Urban Plan, Calama (2016).
A comprehensive urban plan that seeks to revitalize the city of Calama, focusing on community participation and environmental sustainability.
18. Mill Art Museum, Doha (2018 - ongoing).
An ambitious cultural project in Qatar that seeks to merge the monumentality of industrial facilities with serene and austere architectural design. Aravena ensures that the design also considers the working conditions of the workers.
RECOGNITIONS AND AWARDS:
Alejandro Aravena's career has been marked by constant recognition both nationally and internationally. His innovative proposals in architecture, especially with regard to social housing and inclusive design, have positioned him as one of the most influential and respected architects of his generation. Throughout his career, he has received a large number of awards, distinctions and honors, which not only celebrate his talent, but also his social impact and commitment to social justice through architecture.
Pritzker Prize 2016
One of the most outstanding achievements in Aravena's career was the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2016, considered the most prestigious award in the world of architecture. This award placed him at the pinnacle of his profession, and was awarded for his ability to redefine the relationship between architecture and society. In particular, it highlighted his work on projects such as Elemental, an architectural firm he directs, which has transformed the way in which social housing is approached.
The Pritzker jury highlighted his innovative approach and his ability to recognize the social and economic context in which his projects are developed. In the words of the jury, Aravena was chosen for his “socially conscious approach” that reflects a clear commitment to those most in need. The jury also highlighted his work on projects such as the Quinta Monroy in Iquique, Chile, and his “contribution to architectural design aimed at improving people's quality of life”.
This award was not only a recognition of his technical capacity, but also of his humanistic vision, which has translated into an architecture that, more than aesthetically attractive, seeks to solve real social problems and improve the living conditions of the most vulnerable people.
National Architecture Prize of Chile 2013
The Chilean National Architecture Prize is another of the great awards that Alejandro Aravena received in recognition of his impact in the field of architecture. This award is granted by the Council of the Chilean College of Architects and represents one of the most important awards in the country.
In 2013, Aravena was recognized for his architectural work, highlighting his work in both the public and private spheres, especially in social housing projects. The jury highlighted his ability to use limited resources creatively, without losing sight of the human value and social impact of his designs. The National Architecture Prize consolidated Aravena as an architect who goes beyond visually attractive designs and focuses on improving the environment of communities through a “participatory social housing” approach.
Golden Lion at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2016.
In 2016, Alejandro Aravena also received the Golden Lion at the Venice Architecture Biennale, one of the world's most important events in the field of architecture. This prize was awarded to the Chile Pavilion exhibition, which was curated by Aravena and focused on the theme of social housing. The exhibition highlighted the idea of “an architecture that solves real problems,” presenting examples of projects that showed accessible and sustainable solutions for housing millions of people around the world.
The Golden Lion recognized not only the content of the exhibition, but also the global impact that Aravena's projects have had in inspiring architects and professionals around the world to rethink the way homes are designed and built for the most needy.
Prince Claus Award of the Netherlands (2017).
In 2017, Alejandro Aravena received the Prince Claus Award, given by the Government of the Netherlands, which is awarded to those individuals and organizations that have had a significant impact on art, culture and social development. This award was especially relevant because it highlighted Aravena's ability to make architecture an instrument of social change and development for the most disadvantaged communities.
The Prince Claus jury praised his approach to the architecture of inclusion, where quality of life and social well-being are placed above the pursuit of traditional architectural aesthetics. The award was a confirmation of the social impact that his projects, such as Elemental, have had in various countries and how his efforts to transform people's living conditions continue to be an international benchmark.
Other Awards
In addition to these awards, Alejandro Aravena has received numerous honors and distinctions from different institutions around the world, such as:
Harvard University Gold Medal: In recognition of his outstanding academic work and contribution to the field of architecture.
TED Foundation's Housing Innovation Award: Through this award he is recognized for his innovative and transformative approach to social housing.
Columbia University Honorary Professor: A tribute to his educational career and his influence on the formation of new generations of architects.
Opposition and Haters
In order to develop a more complete vision of Alejandro Aravena, it is important to also address the criticisms and negative opinions that have been poured on his work and his figure. Although he is widely recognized and admired in the field of architecture, he is not exempt from criticism and disagreement, especially regarding his proposals for social housing and his architectural approach. Some of the contrary opinions come from both professionals in the field and people who do not share his vision of architecture. The following are some of the most critical points of view about his work and figure.
Criticism of its approach to social housing
One of the areas where Alejandro Aravena has come under fire is in his approach to social housing. Although his work has been praised for its innovation and his approach of “doing more with less,” some detractors argue that his vision is not always sufficient to solve the structural and economic problems faced by the most vulnerable communities.
The “progressive housing” model
Aravena is known for his “progressive housing” or “expandable housing” approach, where he delivers incomplete homes that homeowners can finish on their own over time, according to their needs and resources. However, this approach has been questioned by several critics who see it as a short-term solution that does not solve deeper problems, such as the lack of basic services, social insecurity or the economic difficulty for families to complete their homes.
Some critics point out that this type of housing could perpetuate a lack of quality of life for residents, as projects are not always completed or are completed inadequately, which could have a negative impact on the community in the long term.
Elitist approach to architecture
Another recurring point of criticism of Aravena has to do with what some consider to be an “elitist” approach to his work. Although Aravena has been a strong advocate of accessible architecture, there are those who accuse him of being more focused on large international works than on the internal and complex problems of his own country.
High-profile projects versus low-income housing
In this regard, some detractors accuse him of dividing his time and focus between high-profile projects and his work in social housing, leading to the perception that his efforts in this field may not be as profound as they appear. The fact that Aravena has been chosen for projects such as the Venice Biennale or the renovation of historic buildings has led some to see him as an architect more interested in global aesthetics and high-level connections than in solving the real difficulties faced by people living in vulnerable situations.
Criticism of its architectural style
In addition to criticisms of his social approach, there are those who disapprove of his architectural style. Although Aravena is known for his functionalist and austere style, which shies away from ornamentation and excess, some of his detractors consider his designs to lack character or beauty. This criticism comes mainly from those who believe that architecture should not only fulfill practical functions, but also be an art form that brings beauty to the city.
Lack of “emotion” in their works
Critics who oppose his style claim that his projects have an excessive austerity and lack an emotional dimension that many seek in architecture. This functional approach, which prioritizes efficiency and low cost, is not always well received by those who value a more expressive architecture that enriches the experience of those who inhabit the spaces.
Controversy with the “Architecture of Gentrification”.
A much debated aspect of Aravena's work is the risk that his approach may, in some cases, be related to processes of gentrification. Gentrification is the process by which a deteriorated neighborhood is transformed, but it can also result in the displacement of original residents due to rising housing prices and living costs.
Housing for the middle classes
Aravena's approach to building quality affordable housing has been interpreted by some as a form of “gentrification of poverty”. It is argued that his “affordable” housing projects in certain neighborhoods may attract middle-class people or even investors, which could generate displacement of the original population and contribute to social inequality. Although Aravena has gone to great lengths to ensure that his projects target the neediest classes, some argue that the proposed solutions are not enough to curb gentrification and may end up benefiting the middle classes more than the most vulnerable social groups.
Today, Alejandro Aravena remains one of the most influential voices in contemporary architecture, demonstrating that design can change the world, not just aesthetics. His work, characterized by sustainability, functionality and social commitment, leaves a clear lesson: architecture should serve people, be a tool to improve the quality of life.
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