Paolo Soleri was born on June 21, 1919 in Turin, Italy. His passion for architecture was evident from a young age, and he pursued his education at Politecnico di Torino, where he earned his Ph.D. in 1946. It was during his time at the university that Soleri first began to develop his unique vision for the future of urban design.
One of Soleri's early accomplishments was the design of a bridge that caught the attention of the Museum of Modern Art in New York, which acquired and displayed his work. This early success helped to propel Soleri into the world of architecture, where he quickly gained recognition for his innovative designs and forward-thinking ideas.
One of Soleri's most famous projects is Arcosanti, a community planned for 5,000 people located just outside Phoenix, Arizona. Arcosanti was designed to be a model for sustainable living, incorporating Soleri's concept of arcology, which combines architecture and ecology to create self-sustaining urban environments. The community serves as a living laboratory for Soleri's ideas, showcasing the potential for a more harmonious relationship between humans and the natural world.
In addition to his work on Arcosanti, Soleri also founded the Cosanti Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting his ideas and philosophy. Through the foundation, Soleri was able to educate and inspire others to think differently about the built environment and to consider the impact of their actions on the planet.
Paolo Soleri's influence on the field of architecture is profound and enduring. His ideas about sustainability, urban planning, and the relationship between humans and the environment continue to inspire architects and designers around the world. Soleri's work serves as a reminder of the power of visionary thinking and the importance of taking action to create a better future for all.
Soleri's family was living in Turin at the time of his birth. He later married Corolyn Woods and together they had two children. Despite his busy career, Soleri always made time for his family, instilling in them a love of nature and a deep respect for the planet.
During his career, Soleri had the opportunity to work closely with the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Soleri spent over a year in fellowship at Wright's famous studios, Taliesin and Taliesin West, where he absorbed valuable lessons about design, craftsmanship, and the integration of architecture with the surrounding landscape. Wright's influence can be seen in Soleri's work, as both architects shared a commitment to creating buildings that harmonize with their natural surroundings.
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