Architectural Milestone: The Tower Mohammed VI
Rafael de La-Hoz Castanys, a name synonymous with modern architecture, has recently added a remarkable achievement to his illustrious career with the completion of the Tower Mohammed VI, now the tallest skyscraper in Morocco. Standing at an impressive height of 250 meters and comprising 55 floors, this architectural marvel is located in Rabat and ranks as the third tallest building in Africa, trailing only the Iconic Tower in Egypt and the Great Mosque Tower in Algiers. Inaugurated by Moulay El Hassan, the tower symbolizes a new era of modernity, reshaping the skyline of Rabat and Salé. Its silhouette is visible from over 50 kilometers away, integrating seamlessly into a total constructed area of 102,800 square meters, with the interiors designed by the renowned Belgian firm, Flamant.
A Legacy of Architectural Excellence
Born in Córdoba in 1955 into a family of architects, Rafael de La-Hoz often reflects on how his path was predestined from the start, stating, "I didn't choose this life; I was born an architect." His upbringing in Medina Azahara and later in the El Brillante neighborhood, where his father designed various residential projects, profoundly influenced his career trajectory. After moving to Madrid to pursue a degree in architecture at the Polytechnic University, he became involved with the family firm, Rafael de La-Hoz Arquitectos, which was founded by his grandfather in 1920. This firm has played a pivotal role in modernizing Spanish architecture. Rafael's early projects included significant corporate campuses, such as the Cristalia Business Park in northern Madrid, as well as notable structures like the Spanish Chamber of Commerce, Endesa's headquarters, and the Repsol Campus.
In 2026, Rafael de La-Hoz is also set to lead the renovation of the Benito Villamarín Stadium, which will include new seating, enhancements to existing stands, and an increase in capacity to 60,379 spectators. The project envisions a new roof over all stands, a refreshed facade, leisure areas with green spaces, and an auditorium accommodating 450 people. His expertise in sports architecture is further evidenced by his work on several stadiums in the United States and renovations of NBA arenas, including the iconic Staples Center in Los Angeles. Although he was a finalist in the design competition for the new Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, his proposal was ultimately not selected.
Throughout his career, Rafael de La-Hoz has garnered recognition not only in Spain but also in countries like Portugal, Poland, Romania, Hungary, the UAE, and Morocco. His accolades include the Averroes de Oro Award for Fine Arts in 2010, the COAM Distinction for Architect’s Work from the Official College of Architects of Madrid in the same year, and the International Work Award at the XI Biennial of Architecture in Argentina in 2007. A family man, he is married with two children, one of whom, sharing his name, represents the fourth generation of architects in the family.
As reported by eldebate.com.
