Mario Andruet – Beyond Imitation: Gaudí’s Biomimicry and the Modern Architectural Paradigm

“Nature is my master.” In this brief statement, Antonio Gaudí summarized his fundamental idea about architectural creation: Studying the natural environment as a book that offers countless lessons applicable to the creation of healthy, safe and comfortable spaces. In this class we will deepen into some of the solutions inspired by laws and processes of nature with which Gaudí anticipated the modern concept of Biomimesis by a century.

About Mario Andruet

Mario Andruet, an architect based in Barcelona, boasts 35 years of expertise in architectural projects ranging from new constructions to historic restorations. He is a co-founder of BSMA Architects and currently serves as the President of the Antonio Gaudí Foundation. His career not only highlights hands-on architecture but also extends to research, cultural endeavors, and academic pursuits.

Some notable accomplishments include:
– A decade-long research tenure (1993-2007) at the Gaudí Chair of the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, where he also organized exhibitions on Antonio Gaudí’s works.
– Teaching stints at the Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura de Barcelona and the Escuela de Arquitectura, Universidad de Navarra.
– Collaborations on over a hundred architectural projects at the Bassegoda firm in Barcelona.
– Restoration of eight Gaudí masterpieces, including Casa Batlló, Park Güell, and Casa Calvet.
– Lectures on Gaudí’s work and sustainable architecture across countries such as Spain, the Netherlands, the US, and Peru.
– Production and organization of 16 international exhibitions.
– Curation of Gaudí-themed exhibitions in cities like Madrid, Lima, and Sao Paulo.
– Authorship of numerous publications, spanning books, articles, and research, primarily affiliated with the Gaudí Chair and Antonio Gaudí Foundation.