Pelli Clarke & Partners' Net-Zero Lola Mora Center Opens in Argentina
In San Salvador de Jujuy, Argentina, the Lola Mora Cultural Center stands as the inaugural cultural structure in South America designed by Pelli Clarke & Partners and marks the final endeavor of its founder, César Pelli, who passed away in 2019. His son, Rafael Pelli, completed the project seven years later. The center showcases six monumental marble sculptures by Lola Mora, set against the backdrop of the Andes' forests and mountains. Its design includes a bridge entrance, a main lobby, and a flowing shape that integrates native trees. The main hall features expansive windows that unveil the sculptures—The Lions, Liberty, Progress, Work, Peace, and Justice—together for the first time in over a century. The building aims for net-zero energy and is pursuing LEED Gold certification.
Key facts
- The Lola Mora Cultural Center is Pelli Clarke & Partners' first cultural building in South America.
- It is the last project led by César Pelli, who died in 2019, and was completed by his son Rafael Pelli.
- The center houses six marble sculptures by Lola Mora, which stood outdoors for over a century.
- The sculptures were commissioned in 1906 for the Argentine National Congress and removed fifteen years later.
- The building is net-zero, generating 100% of its energy from wind turbines, photovoltaic panels, and solar thermal collectors.
- The project is pursuing LEED Gold certification.
- Gardens were designed by Balmori Associates, founded by Diana Balmori.
- Materials, including stone cladding, were sourced locally.
- The center includes an interpretation center, restaurant, library, gift shop, and atelier for visiting artists.
- Museography by MUDE and lighting by Cappiello + Partners.
Entities
Artists
- César Pelli
- Rafael Pelli
- Lola Mora
- Diana Balmori
- Axel Zemborain
- Susana La Porta Drago
Institutions
- Pelli Clarke & Partners
- MUDE
- Cappiello + Partners
- Arturo Beccar Varela & Asociados
- Balmori Associates
- Government of the Province of Jujuy
Locations
- San Salvador de Jujuy
- Argentina
- Andes
- Yunga forest
- Buenos Aires
- New Haven
- New York