Cruz/Ortiz (Bilingual Edition)

This monograph is dedicated to the work of the Seville-based architects Antonio Cruz and Antonio Ortiz, developed between 2000 and 2013 in diverse contexts such as Spain, the Netherlands, and Switzerland.

From iconic projects like the renovation of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam to the Basel Train Station and the design of the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, this publication offers a comprehensive perspective on the craft of these architects from Seville.

Cruz and Ortiz’s work is characterized by their ability to masterfully tackle complex problems, achieving elegant solutions that blend technical precision and sensitivity. As Rafael Moneo noted, their work is a balance between gesture and rule, where every architectural decision is rooted in a deep contextual analysis and an unrelenting search for the appropriate form.

From their beginnings in a small office in Seville to their international expansion, Cruz and Ortiz’s methodology reflects a disciplined and collaborative practice. In their studio, design emerges as a process of dialogue, exploration, and synthesis, where initial sketches and models are transformed into robust proposals that are always attentive to the physical and cultural context of the site. Projects like the Rijksmuseum, developed over more than a decade, stand out for their meticulous attention to detail and respect for historical heritage.

Cruz and Ortiz’s architecture invites reflection on architectural practice as a craft deeply rooted in problem-solving with sensitivity and rigor. At a time when contemporary architecture faces both technical and ethical challenges, this monograph serves as a testament to how dedication, respect for the profession, and the pursuit of excellence can produce timeless works. Like “centaurs of the desert,” these architects have ventured into uncharted territories, opening paths for new generations and reminding us of the enduring value of well-crafted architecture.