Rogelio
Salmona

Awardee

Country

Colombia

Rogelio Salmona re-examined history his architectural practice.

Themes
Reexamining history
Disciplines
Architecture
Awards
Archive - Prince Claus Laureate 1998

Profile

Rogelio Salmona (1929-2007) was an architect based in Colombia. He played a pivotal role in the avant-garde movement of Colombian architects who sought to reinterpret traditional typologies and create a contemporary architecture rooted in regional identity. Salmona's designs harmoniously integrated nature, light, and local materials, showcasing deep respect for the environment and traditional architecture while contradicting the arrogance of modernist principles.Landmark projects like the Torres del Parque residential complex and the National Library of Colombia demonstrated his ability to create inclusive public spaces that fostered a sense of community. In the face of rapid, unorganized urbanization in Latin America, Salmona's work aimed to rehabilitate and enhance the quality of urban life, making a lasting contribution to the development of architecture and urban design in the region. His commitment to creating socially conscious designs that celebrated the cultural heritage of Colombia had a profound impact on generations of architects.