Pedro Ramirez Vazquez, one of the most influential architects in the history of Mexico, left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape of his country and beyond. Born on April 16, 1919 and died on the same day in 2013, he lived and worked for nearly seven decades, contributing significantly to the architectural, cultural and social development of Mexico and other parts of the world. His career, which spans from the 1940s to the early 21st century, reflects his unwavering dedication to architecture as a tool for transformation and his commitment to serving society.
The Beginnings and the Transformational Vision
Pedro Ramirez Vazquez began his professional career at a crucial moment in Mexico’s history, when the country was seeking to redefine and modernize itself after the Mexican Revolution. From an early age, he demonstrated his passion and talent for design and architecture. This interest led him to study at the Faculty of Architecture of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), where he graduated in 1941.
At the age of 25, in 1944, he assumed a key role as zone chief of the Administrative Committee of the Federal Program for the Construction of Schools (CAPFCE). This early experience gave him a valuable perspective on the importance of education and the need for adequate educational structures for the growth and development of the country. This awareness laid the foundation for his future architectural philosophy, which was always imbued with a deep commitment to social transformation and community service.
The "Aula-Casa Rural" Concept: Transforming Education
One of Ramirez Vazquez’s most significant contributions was his innovative concept of the “aula-casa rural“, a revolutionary system for school construction that sought to address the educational needs of rural Mexico. In 1958, he was already General Manager of CAPFCE and presented an ambitious plan to build 39,000 new schools in 10 years, based on this innovative concept.
The “aula-casa rural” system not only addressed the need for adequate educational spaces, but also considered the integration of the school into the daily life of the community. These schools became centers that not only provided education, but also provided a gathering place and activities for the surrounding community. This holistic approach showed Ramirez Vazquez’s advanced and progressive vision in architectural design.
In the first year of implementation of this system, in 1959, one thousand rural classroom-houses were built, setting an impressive pace of development. The efficacy and efficiency of this concept were recognized internationally, and UNESCO adopted it through CONESCAL, replicating it in 17 Latin American countries. This achievement not only confirmed the excellence of its design, but also underscored its global impact.
Impact on Urban Planning: Markets and Public Spaces
In addition to his focus on education, Ramirez Vazquez also left an indelible mark on urban planning in Mexico City and other cities. Between 1955 and 1957, he participated in the design of 15 markets in Mexico City in collaboration with prominent architects such as Felix Candela, Rafael Mijares, Javier Echeverria and Juan Jose Diaz Infante. These markets, such as La Lagunilla, Tepito, Coyoacan, Azcapotzalco, and others, represented a significant improvement in urban planning and the provision of space for commercial activity.
Ramirez Vazquez’s vision was not limited only to buildings. He understood the importance of public spaces and their relationship to the quality of life of citizens. This understanding led him to design and contribute to the planning of diverse public spaces throughout Mexico, focusing on creating more inclusive and accessible urban environments.
Architectural Icons: From Mexico to the World
Ramirez Vazquez’s impact is not limited to the national level. His architectural vision also transcended borders, making its mark in various parts of the world. During his prolific career, he contributed to architectural projects in Senegal, Egypt, Switzerland, Spain, Tanzania, Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic, among others.
One of his most outstanding achievements was the design of the National Museum of Anthropology, a masterpiece that has become an emblem of Mexican culture and an architectural landmark worldwide. The monumentality and cultural symbolism of this museum have received international recognition and admiration.
Another milestone in his career was his role as president of the organizing committee for the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico. This event was not only an opportunity to demonstrate his mastery in organization, but also to showcase his talent in graphic design by creating the distinctive graphic image of the games. This contribution to graphic design not only defined the aesthetics of the games, but also set a standard for future sporting events.
Legacy and Philosophy of Service
Pedro Ramirez Vazquez’s life and work are marked by his dedication to architecture as a tool for social change and positive transformation. He always considered architecture as a discipline at the service of society and the environment. His philosophy emphasized the importance of working effectively and truthfully, rejecting the notion of architecture as a mere manifestation of individual authorship. He believed in architecture as a means to fulfill a service function for those who would occupy those spaces.
In his own words: “To work effectively and truthfully. I have never pretended to do authorial architecture. This discipline has to fulfill a service function for those who will occupy those spaces”. This statement reflects his humility and his commitment to the fundamental purpose of architecture: to serve humanity.
Emblematic Works: Architectural Legacy
Throughout his life, Pedro Ramirez Vazquez left an impressive catalog of masterpieces that not only stand out for their aesthetics and design, but also for their function and cultural significance. Some of these works include:
- National Museum of Anthropology (Mexico City, 1964): One of his most iconic achievements, this museum is a testament to his mastery of architecture and his dedication to preserving and celebrating Mexico’s cultural richness.
- Azteca Stadium (Mexico City, 1966): This stadium is a symbol of Mexico’s soccer fervor and has witnessed numerous sporting events of historic importance.
- New Basilica of Santa Maria de Guadalupe (Mexico City, 1976): This work is a tribute to Mexican devotion to the Lady of Guadalupe, which attracts millions of pilgrims each year.
If you would like to know more of his works, we have left a more extensive list of his works at the end of this blog.
Lasting Legacy: Inspiration for Future Generations
Pedro Ramirez Vazquez’s legacy lives on in contemporary architecture and design in Mexico and beyond. His bold vision, social commitment and passion for service continue to inspire architects and designers around the world. His holistic approach to architecture, which goes beyond aesthetics and seeks to integrate function and community, remains relevant today, when sustainability and social responsibility are key aspects of architectural design.
In conclusion, Pedro Ramirez Vazquez was not only a visionary architect, but also a tireless advocate for the social function of architecture. His legacy lives on in the structures he designed, which remain examples of architectural excellence and witnesses to his dedication to improving people’s lives. His life and work remind us that architecture goes beyond aesthetics; it is a tool for creating a better and more inclusive future for all. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations of architects in their quest to make the world a more livable and meaningful place. As Alher Sem, specialists in facility design, we are particularly inspired by his holistic approach and commitment to function and community in every project. His legacy will continue to be a source of inspiration and guidance in our mission to contribute to the world through architectural design and facilities that serve society.
The following is a list of his representative works both in Mexico and around the world.
His work in Mexico:
- 1943 Elementary School, Mar de Banda No. 18, Tabasco.
- 1943 Elementary School, Mar de Baffin No. 3, Tabasco.
- 1943 Elementary School, Mar de Baffin No. 4, Tabasco.
- 1943 Elementary School Gulf of California, Tabasco.
- 1944 Schools in Tabasco in the towns of Atasta and Tamulté, Villahermosa, Tabasco.
- 1950 Elementary School, Colonia Morelos, Mexico City.
- 1951 El Pipila Elementary School, with Architect Horacio Boy, Mexico City.
- 1952 National School of Medicine, with Arqs. Roberto Alvarez Espinosa, Ramon Torres Martinez, and Hector Velazquez, Mexico City.
- 1952 The National School of Medicine of the University City of the UNAM (today School of Medicine), Mexico City.
- 1954 The Secretary of Labor Building, Mexico City.
- 1955 – 1957 Markets of La Lagunilla, Tepito, Coyoacan, Azcapotzalco, San Pedro de los Pinos and 10 others.
- 1957 Ciudad Universitaria del Noreste (Master Plan) with Architect Rafael Mijares, Tampico, Tamaulipas.
- 1958 Aula Casa Rural and Prefabricated Schools in Mexico, and in 17 Latin American countries (more than 150,000 units in the Mexican Republic from 1958 to 1976).
- 1959 System for rural school construction. Thousands of schools have been built with this system in Mexico and abroad. UNICEF adopted this construction system.
- 1959 S.T.P.S. Elementary School (Annexed to the Secretary of Labor and Social Welfare), with Architect Rafael Mijares, Mexico City.
- 1959 Superior School of Physical Education, with Rafael Mijares, Mexico City.
- 1959 Rural Schools in Zapotzingo and Nacajuca, Tabasco.
- 1960 National School for Kindergarten Teachers, Mexico City.
- 1960 Juarez Institute of Durango with Architect Rafael Mijares.
- 1960 Gallery of History, Caracol Museum, Mexico City.
- 1963 Primary and Secondary School “Central Pedagógica Infantil” (INPI).
- 1963 Héroes de la Libertad Elementary School and Kindergarten, Mexico City.
- 1964 Tierra y Libertad Elementary School, Toluca, State of Mexico.
- 1964 Ana Frank School, San Angel, Mexico City.
- 1964 Secondary School No. 2, Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz Street.
- 1964 The National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City.
- 1964 The Museum of Art and History of Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua.
- 1964 The Museum of Modern Art, Mexico City.
- 1964 Elementary School, Col. 7 de Julio.
- 1964 Elementary School, Col. Lomas de Sotelo.
- 1964 Elementary School No. 273, Col. Ex Garita de Vallejo.
- 1964 Elementary School, Col. Valentin Gomez.
- 1964 School, Col. Aviacion.
- 1964 Elementary School, Col. Jose Maria Pino Suarez.
- 1964 School in the Central Garden, Tacubaya.
- 1964 Elementary School in Observatorio, Mexico City.
- 1964 Uxmal School, Mexico City.
- 1965 Tower of Tlatelolco, building of the Tlatelolco University Cultural Center and its surroundings in the Plaza de las Tres Culturas (formerly the building of the Secretary of Foreign Relations), Mexico City.
- 1965 School Center Revolucion, project with Architect I. Ordorica.
- 1966 The Azteca Stadium, Mexico City.
- 1967 Cuauhtemoc Stadium, Puebla.
- 1969 Irish School, with Architect Rafael Mijares, and Eng. Guillermo Ballesteros, Mexico City.
- 1972 El Rosario Housing Unit (in collaboration with architects Teodoro Gonzalez de Leon and Ricardo Legorreta), Mexico City.
- 1973 Municipal Palace of Cuautitlan Izcalli, its esplanade and several unpublished projects such as the Tree Building and the monumental statues at the entrance and exit of the Municipality, with the letters C I embracing all the lanes of the Mexico-Queretaro Highway.
- 1974 The Master Program of the Azcapotzalco, Iztapalapa and Xochimilco Units of the Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana.
- 1974 Irish School, San Pedro Garza Garcia, Monterrey.
- 1974 Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana, Founder, Rector, and Architectural Project, with Architect David Muñoz, (Xochimilco and Azcapotzalco Units), Mexico City.
- 1975 Embassy of Japan in Mexico, Mexico City.
- 1976 Japanese Mexican Lyceum (1976).
- 1976 The New Basilica of Santa María de Guadalupe (in collaboration with Arqs. Gabriel Chavez de la Mora and Jose Luis Benlliure), Mexico City.
- 1980 The Legislative Palace of San Lazaro (official seat of the Mexican Chamber of Deputies), Mexico City.
- 1980 – 1981 Institute of Historical Studies and Documentation (Annex to the Cloister of Sor Juana) with Arqs. Rafael Mijares, and Andres Giovanini G.
- 1982 Tijuana Cultural Center, Tijuana.
- 1984 The Axa Tower (formerly Torre Mexicana de Aviacion), Mexico City.
- 1984 Project for the Universidad Iberoamericana, in collaboration with Architects Rafael Mijares, Andres Giovanini G., and Francisco Serrano.
- 1984 Omega Building, Mexico City.
- 1986 Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Tocumbo, Michoacan.
- 1987 Templo Mayor Museum, Mexico City.
- 1987 Amparo Museum, Puebla.
- 1993 Industrial Technical School Alvaro Obregon U.A.N.L., with Arqs. Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano. Monterrey, Nuevo Leon.
- 1994 Marist University (Master Plan) “Y” of the Ajusco, with Arqs. Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano, Mexico City.
- 1994 Marist University (Master Plan) in Tulipanes Ajusco, with Arqs. Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano, Mexico City.
- 1995 Marist University (Master Plan) Canal Nacional, Tlahuac, Mexico City, with Archs. Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano.
- 1995 Universidad Marista (Master Plan) Eje 10 Sur, Tlahuac, Mexico City, with Arqs. Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano.
- 1996 – 2000 Libraries of the Universidad Autonoma de Coahuila in its campuses: Saltillo, Monclova, and Torreon, with Arqs. Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano.
- 1997 Convention and Exhibition Center, Siglo XXI in Merida.
- 1999 Infotheque of the Universidad Autonoma de Monterrey, Rio Santa Lucia project, Monterrey, with architects Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano.
- 1999 Universidad Autonoma de Coahuila “Unidad de Seminarios”, with Arq. Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano, Monclova, Coahuila, Mexico.
- 2004 Siglo xxi Auditorium, Puebla.
- 2008 Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana (Project Tower I), with Arqs. Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano.
- 2008 International Convention Center of Chetumal, Quintana Roo.
- 2008 Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana, Cuajimalpa Campus Master Plan, with Architects Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano.
- 2009 Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana, Lerma Campus Master Plan, with Arqs. Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano.
- 2010 The Museum of the Presidents of Coahuila, Saltillo.
- 2011 City Theater in Piedras Negras, Coahuila (2011).
His work in the world:
- 1958 Mexican Pavilion at the Brussels World Exposition.
- 1958 Aula Casa Rural and Prefabricated Schools in India, Indonesia, Philippines, Tanzania, Yugoslavia and Italy.
- 1962 Mexican Pavilion at the Seattle World Exposition.
- 1964 Mexican Pavilion at the New York World Exposition.
- 1965 Rocklands Leopards town seminar, project with Architects Jorge Basurto and Jesus Aguiga. Dublin, Ireland.
- 1971 The Museum of Black Cultures in Dakar, Senegal.
- 1975 Government buildings for the new capital of Tanzania in Dodoma.
- 1976 Presidential House of Costa Rica.
- 1977 Benito Juarez Community Academy in Chicago, Illinois, USA.
- 1982 Monument to Fray Anton de Montesinos, Dominican Republic.
- 1984 Nubia Museum, Egypt.
- 1986 Headquarters Building of the International Olympic Committee in Lausanne, Switzerland.
- 1988 Museum of the International Olympic Committee in Lausanne, Switzerland.
- 1989 The Chapel of the Lady of Guadalupe inside St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
- 1992 Pavilion of the International Olympic Committee at the Universal Exposition in Seville, Spain.
- 1992 Mexican Pavilion at the Universal Exposition in Seville, Spain.
- 1994 Latin American and Caribbean Center for the “University of the West Indies”, with Arqs. Andres Giovanini G, and Javier Ramirez Campuzano. Kingston, Jamaica.
Comments
We are interested in your opinion, please leave us a comment