Oscar Niemeyer: 12 iconic works to understand the genius of Brazilian architecture

Oscar Niemeyer Ribeiro Soares Filho is undoubtedly the greatest name in Brazilian architecture today. In his 104 years of life, he left a legacy of more than 600 works spread around the world. Graduated in engineering and architecture from the School of Fine Arts in Rio de Janeiro, he worked in Lúcio Costa's office where he met the partner for the Ministry of Education and Public Health, Le Corbusier. We selected this and other works by Oscar Niemeyer to know or remember his main works. Check it out!

1- Ministry of Education and Public Health

Located in Rio de Janeiro, the building involved the participation of Oscar Niemeyer who had just graduated from college. The year was 1936 and leading the project was the French architect Le Corbusier. Niemeyer created a sketch for the project to "pass the time", but the idea ended up being pleasing. The plan of the Brazilian architect was to place the building in the middle of the lot and increase the height of the pilotis from four to ten meters and leave the exhibition block and the auditorium in a mezzanine between them instead of coming out of the first floor - which was the initial idea.

2- Copan

The Copan is one of the most famous works of modernist architecture in São Paulo. Commissioned in 1951 by the city hall to commemorate the city's fourth centenary - which would be celebrated three years later, Niemeyer dared again and created a building of curves that stood out (and continues to stand out) in relation to other buildings. Despite the expectations, due to financial reasons, the Copan was only delivered in 1966. Due to various changes in the project, Niemeyer gave up the construction, which was passed on to architect Carlos Lemo. Thus, only the external part was credited to Niemeyer.

3- Pampulha

Inaugurated in 1943, the Pampulha Church is one of the famous works of architect Oscar Niemeyer. It was commissioned at the time by Juscelino Kubitschek, then mayor of Belo Horizonte. Always ahead of his time, the Brazilian architect used his trademark and created a modern construction using the volatile aspect of concrete. For many years, the church was criticized by religious people for its unorthodox shape. However, today it is visited and considered a true gem in the heart of Minas Gerais.

4- Memorial da América Latina

One of the most famous convention centers in São Paulo was also created by Oscar Niemeyer. The project was born with the aim of creating a development that would serve as a hub for social, cultural, and political integration of Latin American countries. The invitation for Niemeyer came from the then governor of the state of São Paulo, Orestes Quércia.

5- United Nations Headquarters, UN

Located in Manhattan, the building that still serves today as the headquarters of the UN involved the participation of great names in architecture worldwide led by American Wallace Harrison. And of course, with such an ambitious proposal, Niemeyer could not be left out! Among the 50 projects submitted by specialists from around the world, Oscar Niemeyer's project was chosen for being the "most interesting". The completion of the building occurred on August 21, 1950.

6- National Congress

The project embraced all the constructions and services of the Chamber and the Senate. Niemeyer's proposal was to unite the two houses in a single building to provide more rational and economical solutions to social problems, without giving up the independence that each of the layers possesses. The monument emphatically reflects Niemeyer's modernism, with wavy shapes and symmetry.

7- Ibirapuera Park

-The Ibirapuera Park houses five connected cultural buildings, each with a strong influence of modern architecture. Commissioned by the then governor of the state of São Paulo, Lucas Nogueira, in 1951, the proposal was to create a public park for visitors to appreciate true works of art and architecture as well as have a place to rest and gather. Today, Ibirapuera Park is one of the most well-known and visited in São Paulo, hosting audiences of all ages, cultural activities, exhibitions, and much more!

8- Canoas House

The Canoas House was the residential project of architect Oscar Niemeyer for his own home, where he lived for 10 years. The space is considered one of the most significant examples of Brazilian modern architecture. The enterprise is located in São Conrado, Rio de Janeiro, and is considered one of the main projects of Brazilian modern architecture. Nowadays, the house is open for visitation and contains a little shop of books related to Niemeyer's work and philosophy and a cozy space called Canoas Café.

9- Mondadori Publishing House

The headquarters of the Italian publisher Mondadori also featured the creativity and talent of the Brazilian architect. Commissioned by Georgio Mondadori, president of the company, in 1968, the desire was for the building to have a strong inspiration from the Itamaraty Palace. Oscar Niemeyer, however, deviated from the project, and in a few days elaborated a five-story office suspended on the beams of the roof. The result was a true work of art, in which Niemeyer proudly said was his most glorious project in Europe.

10- Brasília Cathedral

The Brasília Cathedral is one of the most renowned projects in Niemeyer's portfolio. After all, the building is a true work of art, with attractive architecture from the inside out. The project earned the architect the Pritzker Prize, in 1988 - the highest recognition for professionals in the field. The church is located at Praça de Acesso, next to the Esplanade of the Ministries.

11- Anhembi Sambadrome

One of the most festive places that hosts the Sao Paulo Carnival, the Anhembi Sambadrome, was also the work of Oscar Niemeyer. Designed in 1991, the 100,000 m² area houses ten sectors: bleachers, track, booths, dressing rooms, and two performance arenas, which every year feature the participation of the biggest samba schools in São Paulo. In addition, the Sambadrome also serves as a stage for sports events, such as the IndyCar Series.

12- Niterói Contemporary Art Museum

The shape of the Niterói Contemporary Art Museum does not deny Niemeyer's authorship! It is a quite modern monument that catches the attention of those visiting the city. The 16-meter high museum is divided into six sectors. A large concrete ramp leads visitors to the entrances and upper floors, in 98 meters of free space. In addition to creating a renowned space to host exhibitions, the Brazilian architect was concerned with creating an experience for visitors, providing an impeccable view of the Guanabara Bay.