Event – Detail

Part of The Athenæum's new monthly international design series presented in partnership with the Consular Corps Association of Philadelphia.

Uruguay’s built environment has become a stage for bold architectural interventions that both respect and redefine the nation’s identity. Through four landmark projects by Rafael Viñoly Architects — Carrasco International Airport, Edificio Acqua, Laguna Garzón Bridge, and Médano by Viñoly — this presentation explores how architecture can reconcile modern demands with regional context, cultural traditions, and ecological responsibility. Each project demonstrates a balance of innovation and sensitivity: the airport’s soaring roofline evokes coastal dunes while elevating the experience of travel; Edificio Acqua’s terraced residences dissolve into the ocean horizon while setting new standards for luxury and privacy; the Laguna Garzón Bridge’s circular design slows vehicles to honor its fragile lagoon ecosystem and creates a shared public realm; and Médano by Viñoly’s ‘landscraper’ form pioneers a new model of carbon-conscious, resilient living integrated with dune landscapes. Together, these works illustrate a consistent philosophy: architecture as a civic act that frames nature, amplifies culture, and redefines national presence on the global stage.

Light refreshments to follow.

Román Viñoly is a Partner at Rafael Viñoly Architects, where over more than 25 years he has held roles spanning writing, visualization, project leadership, operations, and finance. He also has a background in filmmaking and media, having worked as a photographer, filmmaker, and entrepreneur. In 2014, he and Rafael co-founded Integrated Developments (ID), a vertically integrated real estate development company whose first project — a 13,390-square-meter Class A office building in Montevideo — was completed in 2019; several more are now underway, including Médano by Viñoly, the most sustainable residential project in Latin America. Román also leads the Viñoly Foundation, serves on the advisory board of the Penn Center for Neuroaesthetics, and as CEO of ID oversees all aspects of design and delivery, bringing a dual perspective as both developer and long-time leader within an architectural practice.

All event sales are final.