An award-winning architect, responsible for many iconic buildings in South Wales, is retiring from his Cowbridge High Street practice after nearly 30 years.
Isaac Benjuya, a familiar and friendly face around the town, was responsible for designing many iconic buildings and residential dwellings throughout South Wales. His work included the Newport Police HQ, St Mary’s Church in Chepstow and more locally, the Filco extension in Llantwit Major.
Mr Benjuya, who will be 80 this year, won the Gold Medal award for Industrial Architecture for his work on Cardiff’s Radiochemical Centre. He came to Wales in 1973 from Uruguay, fleeing the Tupamaros, a left-wing guerrilla group, and now lives in the Vale of Glamorgan.
Isaac Benjuya told the Gem that despite his retirement from his practice in Cowbridge, he is ‘only hanging up one boot’ and will continue to work on some projects from his home in Dinas Powys.
Vale MP Alun Cairns has praised the architect’s tenure in the town, describing him as a big personality and a ‘local institution’.
He said, “Isaac is one of the friendliest and most interesting people I have met. In Cowbridge his door was always open and he could often be found chatting with residents on the High Street. He is a real local institution, part of the framework of Cowbridge, and his departure is truly the end of an era.
“I wish him all the best for the future and hope he manages to enjoy some well-deserved rest.”
Mr Benjuya said, “I always enjoyed the easy way people came into the office, either to order some new project, or to enquire on the progress of a project, or simply for a chat or a cup of coffee.
“Now that I am almost 80 years old, I feel it is time to take a step back from the daily half an hour trip to Cowbridge, each way, often arriving at 7am to secure my parking space!
“I am grateful for all the happy memories of my time in Cowbridge and would like to thank all of my good friends and clients.”