Features in other countries, and is widely recognised in awards and als, which draws on the magnificent architecture that the competitions”, sasyMarta Vall-llosera, president of the country produced in the second half of the 20th century. Higher Council of Spanish Architects’ Associations (CSCAE). The best professionals in Spanish architecture are, in Innovating to continue meeting its objectives many cases, also teachers, facilitating intergenerational Although time passes and perspectives are shaped by new communication through which genius can shine through. priorities, architecture has always pursued the goal of serv- “Architecture as a discipline has always been prominent in ing people and solving social problems. However, on some Spain”, says Carlos Lamela, who attributes this to the coun- occasions, impressing othershas taken precedence over try’s great artistic and architectural heritage, together with technique and architecture’s social function. “Sometimes the momentum and revaluation it received on becoming it is necessary to take a few more risks in a project from a a tourist powerhouse, as well as the essential role played formal point of view, because of the location or its users, by the country’s architecture schools. “Architectural qual- but the aim is never to show off”, argues Carlos Lamela. ifications in Spain have always had a significant technical “Architecture that does not serve a purpose is mean- component, in addition to the humanistic one; this means ingless, no matter how impressive it may be”, argues Enric that, seen from abroad, Spanish architects are considered Batlle. The architect places efficiency as the top priority of architects, but also engineers”, adds Lamela. the profession, a place from which creativity must flour- “Spanish architects continue to be like those of the ish. “Good architecture emerges when functional, respon- Renaissance, who understood structures, aesthetics, image, sible and coherent solutions are achieved, and from there connection with the surroundings, sociology, etc. Everything an aesthetic language is also generated that can enhance that is taught in the different subjects at Spanish architec- a city and, in some cases, even contribute a symbolic or ture schools leads us to have a different mindset and con- emotional dimension. But always as a consequence of a cept of architecture than in other countries”, says the dean good approach, not as an end in itself”, he states. The of COAM, who cannot help but highlight the sensitivity of Catalan architect warns that we should not be seduced by Spanish architects and the global outlook of its profession- the iconic nature of spectacular forms that lack content. “Architecture should excite, yes, but without ever losing sight of its fundamental purpose: to serve society”, he adds. For Spanish architectureto be functional as well as iconic and sensitive, sustainability is an essential factor. “Aspects that include the use of local materials and en- vironmentally friendly construction techniques, or the implementation of renewable energies”, believes Marta Vall-llosera. A commitment to sustainability involves re- thinking architecture itself. “We have to design differently, and much of the work of architects should consist of min- imising the need to build, pnning the use of buildingsla that already exist, designing intelligent ways to make use L The National Museum of Roman Art in Mérida, designed by Rafael Moneo, is a work that connects the past with the present. Opened in 1986, its brick and arch architecture blends in with the nearby Roman ruins. Moneo has created a space that respects history while enhancing the pieces on display, using light and layout to guide the visitor’s experience. An example of how the contemporary can engage in dialogue with our heritage. 12