Legorreta

Ricardo Legorreta, one of the most influential architects of the modern era, is celebrated for his bold forms, vibrant colors, and integration of design with nature. Casa En Maui embodies his vision, blending artistry and purpose to create timeless architecture. Today, the firm LEGORRETA® continues this legacy, shaping spaces around the world that honor his philosophy of architecture as a celebration of life and place.

Legend and Legacy

Ricardo Legorreta’s work transcends traditional design, marrying bold geometric forms with plays of light, color, and natural materials. As one of the most celebrated architects of the modern era, his philosophy centers on creating spaces that are not only beautiful but deeply connected to their surroundings and purpose.

Ricardo Legorreta, Learn more at LEGORRETA®

“Light belongs to the heart and spirit. Light attracts people, it shows the way, and when we see it in the distance, we follow it.”

— Ricardo Legorreta

Casa En Maui is a testament to Legorreta’s vision. The textures of stone and wood, touched by Maui’s ocean breeze through open spaces, reflect his belief that architecture must coalesce with its environment. Designed to embrace Maui’s natural beauty, the home balances dramatic artistry with functional elegance. Every line, every shadow, every material choice reflects his commitment to harmonizing indoor and outdoor spaces.

Legorreta’s mastery lies in his ability to use light as a medium, transforming structures into living art. At Casa En Maui, light filters through apertures and arches, animating the interiors throughout the day. Morning light gently illuminates each corner, infusing spaces with vitality. As the day unfolds, shifting shadows lend quiet drama, and by evening, a golden glow settles, enveloping the home in tranquility.

The Language of Light and Shadow

“Modern architects want too much clarity in a building,” said Ricardo Legorreta. “They miss the pleasures of mystery and intrigue.”

— Architectural Record

A Lineage of Bold Design

Legorreta’s signature style—vivid colors, monumental forms, and an interplay of textures—is evident throughout Casa En Maui. The magenta-hued accents and clean, geometric transitions exemplify Legorreta’s fearless use of color and form, creating spaces that balance the monumental with the intimate.

The home’s vibrant accents stand in contrast to its raw, timeless materials of concrete, tile, native woods, and steel. This juxtaposition of simplicity and complexity creates spaces that feel both grounded and uplifting. Each turn reveals a layered experience of design and emotion, where each room unfolds with purpose and grace.

Connection to Place

For Legorreta, architecture was never separate from its environment. At Casa En Maui, the design is inseparable from the island’s landscapes. Windows frame ocean vistas and mountain horizons, while terraces seamlessly extend living spaces into the island’s natural beauty. This integration of indoor and outdoor worlds fosters a connection to the land, making the home feel like a natural extension of its surroundings.

Harmonious Design

Every element of the home has been crafted to create a tranquil environment. The use of natural materials, such as stone and wood, evokes a sense of calm and groundedness. Vibrant accents add warmth without overwhelming, fostering a balance that is at once elegant and inviting.

The design flows effortlessly, encouraging both intimate gatherings and quiet moments of solitude. Stone floors offer a cooling touch, while terraces invite ocean breezes and starry night skies, alive with the spirit of Maui. Casa En Maui exemplifies Legorreta’s belief that architecture should inspire while elevating the experience of daily living.

“Creating the best architecture inspired by human values”

— LEGORRETA®

Timeless Influence

Ricardo Legorreta’s contributions to architecture remain enduring. His global projects include iconic works such as the San Antonio Central Library in Texas, the vibrant Camino Real Hotels across Mexico, and the striking Visual Arts Center at the University of California, Santa Barbara. In 2000, he was awarded the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Gold Medal, the institute’s highest honor, recognizing his profound influence on modern architecture. In 2011, he received both the prestigious UIA Gold Medal and the Praemium Imperiale in Architecture, a globally respected arts prize awarded by the Japan Art Association.

Celebrated Achievements

American Institute of Architects (AIA) Gold Medal (2000): The highest honor awarded by the AIA, recognizing his profound influence on modern architecture.

UIA Gold Medal (2011): Recognized as one of the highest honors in architecture, awarded for his outstanding contributions to the field.
Praemium Imperiale in Architecture (2011): A global arts prize acknowledging exceptional achievements in the field.
San Antonio Central Library (1995): Known as the "Enchilada Red," this bold structure is a hallmark of Legorreta’s fearless design.
Camino Real Hotels: Vibrant and luxurious hotels showcasing his mastery of color and monumental form.
Visual Arts Center, University of California, Santa Barbara: A striking integration of art and architecture.
Tech Museum of Innovation, San Jose, California: Celebrated for its vibrant, human-centered design.
El Colegio de México Library: A timeless fusion of functionality and artistry.

LEGORRETA continues its practice under the leadership of Ricardo Legorreta's son, Víctor Legorreta. From private residences to large-scale developments, the firm remains dedicated to creating timeless architecture that inspires, uplifts, and transforms.

Ricardo Legorreta and Victor Legorreta (Partner, Managing and Design Director at LEGORRETA®)

Photo Credit: Graciela Iturbide