The Paraguayan architect Solano Benítez will receive this Friday the Doctor Honoris Causa distinction from the National University of Rosario (UNR) in the Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Design, in recognition of his contribution to Latin American culture and his extensive contributions to the research and experimentation of new architectural construction applications specialties from the public university and the private sector.
Benítez is widely recognized for his innovative approach to the use of local and sustainable materialsespecially in the exploration of brick as a construction element. His work has not only redefined the technical and aesthetic possibilities of architecture in Latin America: it had a significant impact on the global community of architects.
Throughout his career, he was awarded numerous awards and distinctions, among which the BSI Swiss Architectural Award (2008) stands out.which recognizes architects under the age of 50 whose work contributes significantly to contemporary architecture.
He also received the Global Award for Sustainable Architecture (2012)awarded by the Locus Foundation, which honors architects who have developed innovative and sustainable solutions to current architectural challenges.
And the Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale (2016) for his outstanding contribution to the Paraguay pavilion, which stood out for its creative and sustainable use of local materials.
The recognition of the UNR was proposed by professors Ana Valderrama, Marcelo Barrale, Jorge Lattanzi and Enrique Franco, and approved unanimously by the Board of Directors and Superior Council. The Honoris Causa will be awarded this Friday at 6 p.m. at the SUM of Architecturein the University City.
The dean of the faculty, Pedro Ferrazini, highlighted the recognition and explained: “The delivery of this title highlights the commitment of our institution to academic excellence, to our professionals of Latin American architecture who develop the discipline thinking of it as part of the cultural heritage of our region and with the promotion of figures who, like Solano Benítez, inspire new generations with their example. This initiative is part of our institution’s work to recognize and celebrate talent and innovation in the field of architecture in one of its greatest references.”
The rector of the UNR, Franco Bartolacci, and the president of the College of Architecture and Urbanism of Santa Fe, Rubén Palumbo, will also participate in the event.
