“Rafael Viñoly was my mentor, collaborator, and one of my dearest friends. He possessed incredible generosity of thought, with a creative spirit that inspired a generation of architects. I am honoured to have been witness to his electric energy, his endearing humour, his elegance, and his genius.

Early in my career, he said to me: ‘You have a wonderful future because you have a wonderful past, and you will continue to build on it, as an architect, a companion, a friend and a mother. I will watch you become the great and successful architect you hope because you just can’t help but being one.’ He was an unfailing friend—he gave me great courage and for that I am forever grateful.

He leaves an immeasurable hole, and will be so deeply missed—my most sincere condolences to Diana, Roman, the family, and the RVA team.”

Christina Seilern, Principal, Studio Seilern Architects, and founding director of Rafael Viñoly Architects London