The Scottish Parliament Building in Edinburgh, an intricate design completed in 2004, stands as a primary example of the work steered by Benedetta Tagliabue. Born in 1963 in Milan, this Italian architect transitioned from early professional collaborations in New York City to establishing a significant architectural practice based in Barcelona, where she continues to direct complex international projects.
Education and Early Career
Tagliabue began her formal training in 1981 at the IUAV University of Venice, graduating in 1989. Her professional trajectory included stints at Transbuilding and Agrest-Gandelsonas in New York City during 1988. By 1991, she achieved early recognition by winning the first prize at the Biennal Joves de Barcelona with her thesis.
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In 1994, Tagliabue co-founded the Barcelona-based studio Miralles Tagliabue EMBT with Enric Miralles. Following Miralles's death in 2000, she assumed the role of principal and director, completing major commissions including the Gas Natural Building and the renovation of the Mercat de Santa Caterina. Her portfolio subsequently expanded to include the Spanish Pavilion for the 2010 Shanghai Expo and the 2022 San Giacomo Apóstolo church complex in Ferrara.
Academic and Institutional Roles
Beyond her practice, Tagliabue contributes to academia as a teacher at the Escola Tècnica Superior d'Arquitectura de Barcelona. She maintains a significant institutional presence as a member of the Pontifical Academy of Fine Arts and Letters of the Virtuosi al Pantheon and the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland. Her expertise frequently informs international juries, including the Pritzker Architecture Prize and the RIBA Stirling Prize.
Fast facts
- Born: 1963, Milan, Italy
- Education: IUAV University of Venice
- Firm: Benedetta Tagliabue - EMBT
- Notable Work: Scottish Parliament Building
- Awards: Saint George's Cross, RIBA Charles Jencks Award
- Academic Membership: Pontifical Academy of Fine Arts and Letters
- Language Proficiency: Italian, Spanish, French
Questions readers ask
What is the status of the firm founded with Enric Miralles?
The firm continues to operate as Benedetta Tagliabue - EMBT, with Tagliabue serving as the principal and director.
Which major projects did Tagliabue complete after 2000?
She finished the Scottish Parliament Building, the Gas Natural Building, and the Santa Caterina Market, among other international commissions.
Achievements
- Notable work: Mercat de Santa Caterina
- Notable work: Scottish Parliament Building
- Notable work: Parc de Diagonal Mar
- National Cultural Heritage Award
- Stirling Prize
- Saint George's Cross
- Trained at IUAV University of Venice
