Mario Botta

Mario Botta, born on April 1, 1943, in Mendrisio, Canton Ticino, is one of the most renowned and influential Swiss architects internationally. After completing an apprenticeship as a construction draftsman, he studied architecture in Venice, where he had the opportunity to work in Le Corbusier’s studio, an experience that had a decisive impact on his style. In 1970, he opened his own studio in Lugano, beginning a career that would make him a leading figure in international architecture.

Throughout his career, Botta has combined tradition and innovation, creating projects distinguished by simple geometric shapes, such as squares and triangles, and by careful attention to natural light. His architecture, characterized by a strict sense of geometry, is always rooted in the cultural and landscape context. He has taught at prestigious institutions such as the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, the Yale School of Architecture, and the Accademia di Architettura di Mendrisio, which he co-founded.

Among his most significant works are the Parish House of Genestrerio, the Bank of Gottardo in Lugano, the Lugano Art Museum, the Cathedral of Évry in France, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and the Church of San Giovanni Battista in Mogno, considered one of his most iconic creations. Recently, his work has reached East Asia, including the Leeum Museum in Seoul (2004), the Twelve Hotel in Shanghai (2006–2012), and the Tata headquarters in India (1996–2003). In the Mendrisio Academy campus, the “Theatre of Architecture” is under construction, scheduled to open in 2018.

In addition to his work as an architect, Botta has worked as a designer, creating pieces such as the Quarta chair (1984) and the Terzo table (1983). He also established the BSI Architectural Award, funded by BSI Bank in Lugano, awarded to designers under 50 years old.