Paolo Soleri Quotes

Architect
Italy
1919

Paolo Soleri was an Italian architect, urban designer, and philosopher known for his visionary ideas on sustainable architecture and urban planning. He was born in 1919 in Turin, Italy and studied under renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin West in Arizona. Soleri’s work was heavily influenced by Wright’s organic architecture principles and his own belief in the need for a more harmonious relationship between humans and the environment.One of Soleri’s most notable works is Arcosanti, an experimental town in Arizona that serves as a prototype for his concept of “arcology” – the fusion of architecture and ecology. The town is designed to minimize the impact on the surrounding environment and promote a more sustainable way of living. Soleri also designed other projects such as the Cosanti Foundation in Arizona and the Solimene Ceramics Factory in Italy.In addition to his architectural achievements, Soleri was also a prolific writer and lecturer, publishing several books on his theories and ideas. He was a strong advocate for reducing urban sprawl and promoting compact, self-sufficient communities. Soleri’s work has had a lasting impact on the field of architecture and continues to inspire new generations of designers and urban planners. He passed away in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of innovative and sustainable design.Read Less

We must redefine the American Dream before we rebuild the infrastructure on which it is based. Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Paolo Soleri, Dream, Infrastructure, Simple, 0

- Paolo Soleri

Architect

· Italy

Paolo Soleri Career Highlights

In 1946, Soleri received his degree in architecture from the Politecnico di Torino in Italy.
In 1947, he moved to the United States and worked with Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin West in Arizona.
In 1950, Soleri established the Cosanti Foundation in Scottsdale, Arizona, which became the center of his work and ideas.
In 1956, he designed and built his first experimental structure, the Dome House, which became the prototype for his later works.
In 1970, Soleri founded Arcosanti, an experimental town in the Arizona desert, which aimed to create a sustainable urban environment.
In 1976, he published his book “The Omega Seed: An Eschatological Hypothesis” which outlined his philosophy of arcology, a combination of architecture and ecology.
In 1983, Soleri received the Gold Medal for Architecture from the American Institute of Architects.
In 2006, he was awarded the National Design Award for Lifetime Achievement by the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum.

Key Contributions by Paolo Soleri

Soleri’s most significant contribution to the field of architecture was his concept of arcology, which aimed to create sustainable and self-sufficient urban environments.
He believed in the idea of “arcosanti” or “architecture of the future,” which focused on compact, dense, and energy-efficient cities that would reduce the impact on the environment.
Soleri’s designs were heavily influenced by nature and he incorporated elements such as natural light, wind, and water into his structures.
He also experimented with new construction techniques and materials, such as using concrete and steel to create curved and organic shapes.
Soleri’s work has inspired many architects and urban planners to think about sustainable and eco-friendly designs for cities.

What Sets Paolo Soleri Apart

Soleri’s visionary ideas and designs were ahead of his time and continue to be relevant today.
He was not only an architect but also a philosopher, and his work reflected his deep understanding of the relationship between humans, nature, and the built environment.
Soleri’s commitment to sustainability and his belief in the potential of architecture to create a better world set him apart from other architects of his time.
He was also known for his hands-on approach to his work, often personally constructing and building his designs.

Takeaways

Paolo Soleri’s career highlights the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly designs in the field of architecture.
His concept of arcology continues to inspire architects and urban planners to create more efficient and environmentally friendly cities.
Soleri’s work serves as a reminder that architecture is not just about creating beautiful structures, but also about creating a harmonious relationship between humans and the environment.
His legacy lives on through the Cosanti Foundation and Arcosanti, which continue to promote his ideas and educate future generations about the importance of sustainable design.

Other People