ABSTRACT
Architect João Filgueiras Lima, known as Lelé (1932–2014), played a pivotal role in the creation of the University of Brasília, particularly in the development of its architecture program. His contributions to prefabrication and hospital architecture are crucial for understanding the evolution of Brazilian architecture in the second half of the 20th century. This article recounts personal interactions with Lelé over nearly 30 years, highlighting how this relationship influenced structural, architectural, and life teachings. The method employed is a narrative memoir, structured around central scenes that illustrate the lessons learned. As a result, the article reveals Lelé’s strong foundation in structural knowledge, which is particularly surprising given his highly artistic background, notably marked by his deep connection to music. Furthermore, the article aims to showcase his charisma and captivating personality. Lelé’s work is presented as an inspiring example for teaching structures and construction technology to architects.
