La Maison d’Abraxas

The scheme presents all the basic intentions of the early works of RBTA: the aspiration for a dynamic and magic space, the use of powerful built forms, and the introduction of a strong dominant image. It also expresses the conviction that man needs an environment determined by such forms. Additionally, the team introduced two geometrical elements, two basic shapes: the sphere and the cube.

The name La Maison d’Abraxas indicates the complex and contradictory world which is embodied in the works of RBTA; in general it stands for what is revealed rather than what is immanent, and thus suggests the expressive aim of the team.  Here, time and space are controlled and dominated by human beings. The design suggests a certain vision of a universe that denies the realistic boundaries imposed by the construction systems; the building technology must adapt to the design.

The decoration has been replaced with interior architecture. The absence of objects and references to the past confronts the individual with the present; the sober, almost ascetic spaces prompt a dynamic attitude towards creative thinking.

La Maison d’Abraxas represents the symbol of the “house” enlarged at urban scale; the scheme both exalts individualism and encourages social participation.  RBTA uses utopian thinking as a critical response to the mediocre and trivial reality.