How to Pronounce Luis Barragán

Meaning and Context

Luis Barragán (1902–1988) was a seminal Mexican architect and engineer whose work profoundly shaped 20th-century architecture through its poetic synthesis of modernist principles with the vernacular traditions of his native country. Awarded the prestigious Pritzker Prize in 1980, Barragán is celebrated for creating serene, emotionally resonant spaces that masterfully manipulate natural light, bold color, and water within geometrically pure forms. His philosophy, often described as "emotional architecture," sought to evoke solitude and contemplation, drawing inspiration from the landscapes of rural Mexico, Mediterranean gardens, and spiritual influences. Iconic projects like the Casa Estudio Luis Barragán in Mexico City—designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004—along with the San Cristóbal Estates, the Gilardi House, and the Convent of the Capuchinas Sacramentarias, exemplify his unique architectural language. His legacy endures as a cornerstone of minimalist and contemporary design, influencing generations of architects worldwide who seek to infuse built environments with profound sensory and spiritual depth.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The standard and correct spelling is Luis Barragán, which includes the accented "á" in the surname. Common misspellings and typographical errors often arise from omitting this accent, resulting in "Luis Barragan." The double "r" in the surname is also sometimes mistakenly written as a single "r," leading to the incorrect "Luis Baragán." In English-language contexts, the first name is occasionally misspelled as "Louis," adopting the French or English spelling instead of the Spanish "Luis." Furthermore, the full name is sometimes erroneously combined or hyphenated as "Luis-Barragán." When writing, it is important to use the appropriate diacritical mark to ensure accuracy and respect for the cultural origin of the name, though in informal digital contexts the accent may be omitted due to keyboard limitations.

Example Sentences

A pilgrimage for architecture enthusiasts, a visit to the Luis Barragán house and studio in Mexico City offers an intimate glimpse into the architect's philosophy of emotional space.

The vibrant pink wall in the garden of the Luis Barragán-designed San Cristóbal Estates creates a dramatic contrast against the sky, demonstrating his masterful use of color as an architectural element.

Scholars often cite Luis Barragán's ability to frame light and shadow as his most enduring contribution to minimalist design.

When designing the Gilardi House, Luis Barragán famously insisted on a specific shade of yellow to capture the afternoon sun perfectly.

The serene pools and stark geometric forms in his work reveal the profound influence of both Mexican haciendas and international modernism on Luis Barragán.

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