Modern Architecture

From Oscar Niemeyer’s fiery "Auditório Ibirapuera and powerful Memorial da America Latina to Lina Bo Bardi’s “art box” MASP, some of São Paulo’s most popular sites offer awe-inspiring examples of modern architecture. But the city’s passion for naked steel and concrete minimalism certainly doesn’t end there: in this guide, we’ve strayed from the tourist-beaten path to seek out the buildings locals love best.

These gems may not exactly be hidden, but they glitter all the same. All are in some way connected to the “Escola Paulista”, a highly influential generation of architects who grew up amid military dictatorship and rebellious communist influences, then revolted in the late 1960s, established themselves in the 1970s and 1980s, and finally inspired another design wave at the dawn of the new century.

Places in this guide

Culture Sao Paulo 0
Parque Modernista Forward thinking
The start of São Paulo’s love affair with modern architecture: in the 1920s, one Eastern European with distinctly Brazilian flair set the tone.
Culture Sao Paulo 1
FAU USP A revolution in concrete
Vilanova Artigas wanted to revolutionize the way people saw architecture, but he ended up inspiring a battle against political repression—and the young guns of the Escola Paulista.
Culture Sao Paulo 2
Galeria FIESP The art of industry
Rino Levi united art and industry, two unlikely bedfellows; then Paulo Mendes da Rocha stepped in 18 years later with steel and glass.
Culture Sao Paulo 3
SESC Pompéia Architecture for the people
From manufacturing plant to cultural landmark: Lina Bo Bardi tore through time, class and convention to create this community centre.
Culture Sao Paulo 4
MUBE Building art
Who needs commerce when you can have art? This gallery was Paulistanos’ response to an intended shopping mall.
Culture Sao Paulo 5
Centro Cultural São Paulo Long live the arts!
A converted creek inspired this labyrinthine arts complex. Its playful design includes an underground garden and a theater with a “pit” stage.
Culture Sao Paulo 6
Instituto de Arte Contemporânea Room to think
In 1968, Paulistano students fought for more than the right to party: their clashes with the military government resulted in the partial destruction of their school. Now the area is a public art space.

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