One of the most recognized figures in the world of corporate architecture passed away in New Haven, Connecticut, on 19 July. Born in San Miguel de Tucumán (Argentina) into a family of modest means, Cesar Pelli was the quintessential self-made architect. He graduated in 1948 in his home city, but in 1952 settled with his wife, Diana Balmori, in the United States, where he worked with Eero Saarinen for some time. His big break came in 1977 with the commission for the MoMA’s third expansion, at which point he set up his practice, a highly professional office that was soon reaping success in the demanding field of corporate architecture. Two of his most famous works are the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur and the Crystal Tower in Madrid.