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At APE Grupo, we enjoyed a great moments last Thursday, March 14th, at our showroom during a new edition of the Ágora conference forum. Renowned architect Rafael de La-Hoz, leader of an eponymous studio with a legendary trajectory spanning three generations of architects, inaugurated the 2024 “Ágora Inspiring Talks” conference series, an initiative sponsored by APE Grupo in collaboration with the Territorial College of Architects of Castellón (CTAC).
Amidst an atmosphere charged with anticipation, the event took place at APE Grupo’s facilities, with the showroom as the focal point. The opening conference, titled “Tradition as an Invariant,” was delivered by Rafael de La-Hoz, marking the beginning of this year’s conference cycle, aiming to create a space for exchange among professionals in the architectural and interior design fields.
The presentation was a resounding success not only in terms of attendance levels but also in the quality and understanding of the concepts developed by De La-Hoz in the projects he showcased during the event. These projects ranged from executed works to conceptual ideas, making for a splendid afternoon where APE Grupo once again highlighted the national ceramic and architectural sectors.
Rafael de La-Hoz Castanys, leading the architecture studio bearing his name since 1920 and spanning three generations of architects, has emerged as a emblematic figure in contemporary architecture. In 2000, recognizing the potential and universal vocation of his firm, De La-Hoz embarked on the design of large architectural complexes in collaboration with renowned Spanish multinational companies. Endesa, Telefónica or Repsol, initiating a significant process of internationalization that included active participation in prestigious international architecture competitions.
Projects conceived by De La-Hoz’s studio encompass a wide range of architectural typologies, from urban planning to iconic buildings, furniture, and design. Many of these projects have resulted from competitions, showcasing the studio’s innovative capacity and creative excellence.
Committed to the evolution of urban architecture and environmental respect, De La-Hoz has received numerous national and international awards. Among his distinctions are the MIPIM Award for the world’s best building and the International Work Award from the Buenos Aires Biennial. In addition, the American Architecture Award from the Chicago Athenaeum (USA), and the nomination for the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture, the prestigious Mies Van der Rohe Award in 2015.
As an Honorary Member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), President of the Advisory Board of the Cajasur Cultural Foundation, Trustee of the Contemporary Architecture Foundation, and member of the Editorial Board of the German magazine The New Arch, De La-Hoz has been invited as a jury member and speaker by various internationally renowned institutions and universities.
Thus, the Ágora stage has witnessed the presence of prominent figures from the national architectural scene, such as Benedetta Tagliabue, co-founder with Enric Miralles of the EMBT Architects studio. Emilio Tuñón, awarded the National Architecture Prize in 2023. And Iñaki Ábalos of the Ábalos+Sentkiewicz Studio. In its firm commitment to deepen the relationship between architecture and ceramics, APE Grupo has prepared an exceptional conference program for 2024, along with other highly relevant activities.
“Ágora Inspiring Talks” has established itself as a meeting point for architects and interior designers, becoming an open, collaborative space conducive to professional exchange. This platform provides the opportunity to firsthand experience the most outstanding projects developed both in Spain and internationally.
Thus, the “Ágora Inspiring Talks” conference cycle once again represents a milestone in the cultural and professional agenda of contemporary architecture. All, thanks to the commitment and vision of APE Grupo, which has managed to bring together world-renowned figures to enrich the dialogue and reflection on architecture and its relationship with ceramics.
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