NEW YORK – The prestigious Pritzker Prize, often referred to as the “Nobel” for architecture, has been awarded to Chinese architect Liu Jiakun. Born in Chengdu in 1956, Liu has wowed the world with his designs that celebrate the everyday lives of people.
The Pritzker Prize jury, comprising of esteemed architects and scholars, praised Liu’s works for providing “convincing answers” in a time where the architectural world is facing numerous social and environmental challenges. His designs not only reflect the needs of the modern society but also pay homage to the traditions and identities of the local people.
Liu’s portfolio boasts of over 30 projects, ranging from academic and cultural institutions to civic spaces and commercial buildings. He believes that architecture should not only be functional but should also reveal something about the people it serves. In his own words, it should “abstract, distill and make visible the inherent qualities of local people” and create a sense of community among them.
The renowned architect lives and works in his birth city of Chengdu, where he prioritizes the use of local materials and traditional building techniques. He firmly believes that by incorporating these elements in his designs, he can create a deeper connection between the people and the buildings.
One of Liu’s most notable projects is the Museum of Clocks in Chengdu. The large circular structure features a skylight that illuminates an interior strip of photographs. This design not only showcases Liu’s creativity but also allows for a unique experience for visitors.
Alejandro Aravena, the 2016 Pritzker Prize winner and jury chair, spoke highly of Liu’s works, stating that they offer valuable insights on how to tackle the challenges of urbanization. He praised Liu’s ability to balance different dimensions of urban life in his projects, from building design to infrastructure and public spaces.
In a society where cities tend to segregate functions, Liu’s approach is refreshing as he strives to integrate all aspects of urban life in his designs. This approach not only enhances the experience of the people but also promotes a sense of unity and harmony within the community.
Liu is now the 54th recipient of the prestigious Pritzker Prize and will be honored at a celebration in Abu Dhabi this spring. The award organizers have expressed their confidence in Liu’s ability to inspire the next generation of architects with his innovative designs and dedication to creating spaces that celebrate the everyday lives of people.
Last year’s Pritzker Prize was awarded to Japanese architect Riken Yamamoto, who is known for his designs promoting human contact. Upon receiving the award, Yamamoto shared his goal of designing architecture that brings joy to people. This sentiment is mirrored in Liu’s works, making him an ideal recipient of the “Nobel” for architecture.
As the architectural landscape continues to evolve, Liu Jiakun’s designs serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us to never forget the everyday lives of people in our pursuit of progress. His vision and commitment to creating spaces that serve the community make him a deserving winner of the Pritzker Prize. Congratulations, Liu Jiakun – may your work continue to inspire and transform the world of architecture for years to come.
