Michael Rotondi

Michael Rotondi is a Distinguished Faculty member at SCI-Arc and a principal of RoTo Architects, internationally recognized as an architect/educator. With 35 years of experience in both practice and teaching, he has co-founded two influential architectural firms—Morphosis (1975-1991) and RoTo Architects (1991-present)—and been instrumental in shaping SCI-Arc since its founding in 1972. He served as the first Director of Graduate Programs (1978-1987) and as SCI-Arc's second director (1987-1997), while remaining an active Honorary Trustee.

Research and Teaching Focus: Rotondi's work spans contemplative, cultural, and commercial architectural projects, emphasizing the integration of design and education. At SCI-Arc, he teaches thesis students, design studios, and a lecture-seminar on creative imagination. Over his career, he has transitioned from a teacher to a mentor, focusing on guiding students through evolving design philosophies and professional practices.

Professional Contributions: RoTo Architects' projects have garnered numerous awards and widespread publication. Rotondi has lectured and taught globally, blending his architectural practice with pedagogical innovation. His studio-based projects and educational leadership highlight his commitment to merging theoretical exploration with real-world application.