229. Vista Aerea de la Ciudad Universitaria. Caracas, Venezuela

Dear Alexander,

The unquestionable reference of this magnificent 

covered plaza designed by Villanueva, is Le Corbusier's 

lobby in the Palace of the Soviets project of 1931. This 

plaza works as a lobby for the theater and the rectory 

and it is decorated with art works by Bloc, Calder, 

Pevsner etc. It has been an inspiration for many 

architects, including Alvaro Siza when designing the 

Portugal Pavilion for the Expo 98.

Regards.
R

93. Ciudad Universitaria Hospital Clinico Caracas Venezuela

Carlos,

I read that in this University Hospital the corridors linking
the different wings are protected with screens to diffuse
the dazzling light and ensure natural ventilation, letting
the air flow through the perforated blocks to control the
high tropical temperatures. Though this building was
finished in 1954 it seems to me very up to date considering
all the new "green" architectural method we need to deal
with nowadays.
In any case I also admire very much the fantastic display
of bright colors so uncommon in a Hospital.

Thanks.
R