The post-modern and contemporary architectures of Curitiba

 Welcome again, readers.

Today, we are going to discuss the post-modern style of architecture and its impact on the city of Curitiba. Firstly, it is important to remember what this style represents: a nod to the past in order to create a fusion between the modern techniques and the previous traditions. 

When the so-called international style started to get criticized and rejected by many in the world, a series of architects abandoned patterns and labels to be able to enjoy all the possibilities provided by previous schools. That is why designs that seem antique and stuck in past are being revived in recent public constructions. Let's see how this way of approaching architecture shaped Curitiba.

Botanical Garden of Curitiba

The Botanical Garden of Curitiba is a public park that houses gardens, tropical plants and a series of sculptures. Its most iconic symbol is the art nouveau-inspired greenhouse, that makes use of the ''iron and glass architecture", more famously present in the 19th century Crystal Palace, in London. The translucent aspect of the glass is what makes it innovative, as it is fully integrated to its environment. 

In its surroundings, there is a French garden, that reflects the pompous European tradition of palaces and mansions. However, there is also an exclusive space to tropical plants, that represents the connection of Curitiba to the rest of the country. Nowadays, the Botanical Garden is a widely appreciated tourist attraction and is a place of gathering during the weekends. 

Wire Opera House

The Wire Opera House is a concert hall located in Curitiba, being named after its iron tube constitution, that resembles the fragility of a wire. Just like the Botanical Garden, this opera house presents the "iron and glass" technique, that results in an integration with the encircling nature. It was opened on March 18, 1992, and weighs 360T of steel. 

Currently, it is considered by both residents and tourists as one of the most beautiful attractions of Curitiba, housing a series of high-level events, such as music concerts, theater presentations and ballet spectacles. Close to it, there is an outdoor venue called Pedreira Paulo Leminski, that provides space for bigger presentations. The architect of the Wire Opera House says that his project respects nature, materials and its relationship with the surroundings, demonstrating the contemporaneity of his creation.