Director, Contreras Earl Architecture
Born in Peru and now based in Australia, Rafael completed his architecture degree at the Peruvian University of Applied Sciences and his master’s in architecture and urbanism at the Architectural Association in London. Then as a lead architect at Zaha Hadid Architects, Rafael led international teams on major commissions and competition‐winning bids, including the Grand Theatre of Rabat, Tokyo National Stadium and the new Beijing Daxing International Airport, the world’s largest airport terminal. As well as large‐scale residential and mixeduse projects across Australia.
In 2016, Rafael and Monica Earl co‐founded Contreras Earl Architecture (CEA) with the vision to design original, inventive buildings that contribute to the evolution of architecture and toward a better future for our communities and cities. By using advanced software, robotics, materials and construction processes, CEA is liberated from traditional building practices and forms, free to explore creative, avant‐garde ideas for the benefit of the environment and people.
CEA design process is driven by the careful analysis of contemporary life and the desire to create buildings that coexist with the built and natural environment. CEA synthesise research and understand patterns in nature to deliver site‐specific solutions that are rich, beautiful and functional – like the natural world. The architecture that emerges is innovative and advanced, imbued with warmth, soul and artistry. Sculptural forms and organic lines encourage public engagement and optimise environmental performance.
Some of CEA’s award winning and ground‐breaking buildings includes the Living Coral Biobank, the world’s first dedicated coral conservation facility and the Australia’s first Air Taxi Vertiport.
