ABSTRACT
Ignacio Álvarez Castelao (1910–1984) is an architect largely undiscovered by the general public and also by researchers; however his lack of renown does not undermine his extensive vision and alluring buildings. The architectural works of Castelao were conducted during the main part of his career using the importance of construction systems that are characterized in most cases by his façades. Alba Chemistry, the Biological and Geological University and HUNOSA headquarters are some prime examples of his personal investigation into the modular construction system, sometimes working alone, other times alongside engineers such as Juan José Elorza. Castelao registered at least three patents for slabs and prefabricated systems. He also invented a space frame truss called the “Castelao joint”. Ignacio Álvarez Castelao´s buildings are not profoundly studied. I want to present his architectural work by exploring his personal way of designing, building, and researching construction, throughout a life dedicated to Architecture.
Behind this article lies not only a detailed study of each of the works of Ignacio Álvarez Castelao, but also the intention to establish a general timeframe outlining them in order to understand their aligned context. This article aims to present his work with an international scope and to break the language barrier, to help the international dissemination of Castelao’s work and open up new avenues of study, since until now almost everything published has been in Spanish.
Various reasons have meant that many Spanish architects born in the early twentieth century to remain relegated to the background; which is why I believe it necessary to expose his work to a wider audience. In this country, the prevalence of so-called “masters” such as Alejandro de la Sota, Javier Sáenz de Oiza, Miguel Fisac overshadowed the work of many other architects who sometimes are referred to as “provincial”. These architects, who studied in Madrid and later returned to their place of origin to shape their careers, are largely those that helped to create the cities of their time. The Spaniard architect Rogelio Ruiz once said in his article “The Power of an Idea” that the role of Terragni in Como is comparative to the role Castelao provided to Oviedo, as Peña Ganchegui was fundamental to architecture of San Sebastian, as Coderch was to Barcelona, Piacentini to Rome, and Caccia Dominioni was to Milan… Perhaps for some, these architects have created works which have been considered minor works not worthy of mention. However, their ingenuity, courage and wisdom especially in difficult economic times, led them to conceive buildings of both high quality and technical innovation.
