Unbuilt projects by Paulo Mendes da Rocha submitted to competitions

Paulo Mendes da Rocha (1928-2021) was a renowned Brazilian architect. The objects of this research are three unbuilt projects designed by Mendes da Rocha for architectural competitions, until 1993: 1. Center Beaubourg (1971); 2. Caetano de Campos Institute (1976); 3. Public Library of Rio de Janeiro (1984). The objective was to analyze, identify, and verify the design solutions and strategies present in these projects, as well as to understand the importance of these works within the architect’s oeuvre. The research methodology involved a survey of the architect's collection, still located in the architect’s office in the city of São Paulo; a bibliographic survey and review; redrawing; construction of a virtual 3D model; digital simulations; graphic design analysis; identification of design strategies; and discussion. This study assumes that unbuilt designs are full of valuable ideas; it also assumes that projects created for architectural competitions are developed with greater flexibility to explore novel design solutions. The original research findings were the identification of seven design strategies: structure as a defining factor of architecture, relationship between architecture and the city, transformation of the original topography of the site, spatial and visual continuity, adoption of ramps and walkways as main circulation elements, design environments as transitional spaces, and clear organization of the architectural program. Academic research on architectural projects aims to deepen understanding and expand knowledge in the field, revealing design concepts, components, strategies, and solutions, while enriching an architect's work. This research contributed to the evaluation of Brazilian architectural cultural heritage, while also generating knowledge in the area of architectural design by investigating and making visible projects that have never been built.