RIBA International Prize 2021 Shortlist Announced
Three exceptional architecture projects from around the globe were revealed as the 2021 shortlist for the RIBA International Prize by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
The prestigious biennial award celebrates projects that demonstrate design excellence and social impact. The shortlisted projects in contention for the world’s best new building are:
- Friendship Hospital, Satkhira, Bangladesh, by Kashef Chowdhury/URBANA – A remote community hospital set in the fragile watery landscape of the Bengal, built to withstand the ravages of climate change
- James-Simon-Galerie, Berlin, Germany, by David Chipperfield Architects Berlin – A classically inspired entrance building and visitor centre for the world-leading cultural destination and Unesco World Heritage Site, Museum Island
- Lille Langebro, Copenhagen, Denmark by WilkinsonEyre and Urban Agency – Technically innovative new cyclist and pedestrian bridge that elegantly slides open and revitalises Copenhagen harbour
RIBA President Simon Allford said: “Our global architecture awards champion buildings that change the world and positively impact the community around them, and these three exemplars certainly deliver. Situated in a range of locations with various purposes, from a communal hospital in Bangladesh to an innovative cyclist and pedestrian bridge in Denmark, these projects are united by human experience at their heart. Collectively they demonstrate sensitivity to their surroundings and local cultures, inclusive design, and sustainable solutions, and set a high bar for architectural excellence around the world. Congratulations to the talented individuals and practices shortlisted for this international accolade. I look forward to seeing which scheme is selected by our esteemed panel of judges to be named the RIBA International Prize winner.”
The three buildings have been selected following a rigorous judging process, from a long list of 16 exceptional new projects in 11 countries. The winner of the RIBA International Prize and the RIBA International Emerging Architect Prize, which celebrates the future talent of the profession, will be
announced in early 2022. The shortlist will be judged by a distinguished Grand Jury chaired by world-renowned multidisciplinary French architect and urban planner, Odile Decq. The jury members are Es Devlin OBE, acclaimed British artist and designer, Jeanne Gang, American architect and founder of Studio Gang with offices in the USA and Paris, Rossana Hu, architect and founding Partner of Neri&Hu based in Shanghai, China and Brazilian, Gustavo Utrabo, winner of the 2018 RIBA International Prize and Emerging Architect Prize.
Due to the ongoing travel restrictions across the world, projects that the Grand Jury are unable to visit in person this year will be included in the shortlisting stage of the next edition of the RIBA International Prize.