Today, at
Behind Pictures, we want to introduce you to one of the
key figures who has contributed to the richness of contemporary Spanish architecture. It’s time to meet
Carme Pinós! Keep reading and discover with us the professional journey of Carme Pinós through her works and the recognition she has received throughout her career.
Who is Carme Pinós?
Carme Pinós i Desplat is an architect
born in Barcelona in 1954. She is the daughter of Tomás Pinós, a renowned doctor at the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, who
introduced her to the world of architecture. Following her father’s wishes, she completed her studies at the
Barcelona School of Architecture in 1979. She quickly demonstrated exceptional talent in a profession that was largely male-dominated at the time. It was there that she met
Enric Miralles, who would later become her partner and husband. During these early years together, Carme began developing her
first architectural projects, laying the foundations of her distinctive style and vision of architecture.
Carme Pinós and her landscape-driven approach
While studying at the Barcelona School of Architecture, Carme Pinós also helped her mother manage the
family’s agricultural estate in Lleida. This experience played a key role in shaping her architectural vision, giving rise to the
landscape-oriented approach that defines her work. For Pinós, whether designing a building or a landscape, the
human experience—how a space will be used and by whom—is always central. Her work reflects a strong belief in
architecture’s responsibility to serve its community.
Carme Pinós wins the 2021 National Architecture Award
Carme Pinós has consistently applied these values throughout her career,
embedding them in every project she has designed. This approach has earned her recognition from both the public and the architectural community. In December 2021, she was awarded the
National Architecture Award, the highest distinction in architecture in Spain, in recognition of her outstanding and prolific career.
Major works by Carme Pinós
As mentioned, the early stages of her career were closely linked to her partnership with Enric Miralles. Together, they quickly became a highly respected duo.
The Igualada Cemetery is one of the best examples of their work, reflecting the philosophy that would define Pinós’ career. Later, in 1991, she
founded her own architecture studio, which she still leads today, developing projects in furniture design, urban regeneration, and public architecture across multiple countries. Here are some of our favorite projects by Carme Pinós:
Cube I and Cube II Office Buildings (Guadalajara, Mexico)
In the early 21st century, Carme Pinós was commissioned to design an office tower in Guadalajara. From the outset, she placed strong emphasis on
natural lighting and ventilation. The building rises over seventy meters in height.
CaixaForum Zaragoza (Spain)
Another of her most renowned works is the
CaixaForum Zaragoza, a cultural center located in the heart of the city and managed by the “la Caixa” Foundation.
Opened in 2014, it quickly became a major cultural landmark, attracting thousands of visitors every day.
La República Building (Castelldefels, Spain)
The
La República Building, located in Castelldefels, is currently managed by the local council and serves multiple purposes. Previously used as an
educational facility, it was reimagined and revitalized under Carme Pinós’ direction.
Behind Pictures, your 3D rendering studio in Barcelona
After exploring the careers of influential architects such as
Gae Aulenti,
Lina Bo Bardi, or
Zaha Hadid, what did you think of our overview of Carme Pinós’ career? For us, she is a true inspiration, encouraging us to
remain the human and creative force behind every 3D render we produce. So, if you have an idea and want to bring it to life, we are the
3D rendering studio you’ve been looking for.
Get in touch with us and tell us about your project.
We are your 3D rendering studio in Barcelona! 
