Above: The home of Brazilian architect João Batista Vilanova Artigas, located in São Paulo and completed in 1949. Photo: mulher.uol.com.br
Brazil has its fair share of internationally influential Modernist architecture and design. Certainly at the top of that list would be architect Oscar Niemeyer as well as designers like Sérgio Rodrigues. Even ‘transplanted’ designers and architects like Jorge Zalszupin (via Poland) and Lina Bo Bardi (via Italy) helped to create a modern style that is uniquely Brazil.
While there is no shortage of names to draw upon in the world on Brazilian design there is one name that is perhaps not as well recognized outside of his native Brazil as it should be. Born in 1915 architect João Batista Vilanova Artigas is considered one of the most influential of Brazilian modernist architects and was instrumental in helping create the architectural history of São Paulo. Artigas was also one of the founders of the Paulista School, a school of design that embraced raw and exposed materials.
Artigas’ work is diverse, from light and simple classic Modernism to the solidly planted Brutalist style. Rather than showcase the wide catalog of his work I would like to feature here his own home. Located in São Paulo, Brazil is a wonderfully Modernist house – now listed as a historic heritage building – that exemplifies Artigas’ early work and remains remarkable modern today.
The Artigas Residence designed by Brazilian architect João Batista Vilanova Artigas. Located in São Paulo it was completed in 1949. Click on image for full view.
João Batista Vilanova Artigas (1915 – 1985) Shown here sitting in a chair designed by fellow architect Richard Neutra
Digital 3D rendering of the Artigas Residence (odd choice in music though)
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