Liu Jiakun Awarded 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize

Chinese architect Liu Jiakun has been honored with the 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize, often regarded as the highest accolade in the field of architecture. This recognition celebrates Liu's commitment to humanistic design, seamlessly integrating traditional Chinese elements with contemporary architecture to enrich urban living.​archdaily.com+1archdaily.com+1

Career and Philosophy

Based in Chengdu, Liu Jiakun established Jiakun Architects in 1999. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he has completed over 30 projects across China, encompassing academic, civic, cultural, commercial, and urban-planning endeavors. His work emphasizes the use of local materials and craftsmanship, often incorporating imperfections to reflect authenticity and resilience. Notably, after the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, Liu initiated the "Rebirth Brick Project," repurposing earthquake rubble into new building materials, symbolizing community resilience. ​archdaily.com+4es.wikipedia.org+4en.wikipedia.org+4architecturaldigest.com+1en.wikipedia.org+1architecturaldigest.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2theguardian.com+2

Liu's architectural philosophy centers on creating spaces that foster community engagement and reflect local culture. He believes architecture should "abstract, distill, and make visible the inherent qualities of local people," shaping human behavior and cultivating a sense of shared community. es.wikipedia.org+4architecturaldigest.com+4apnews.com+4

Notable Projects

• West Village, Chengdu (2015): This urban development features terraced landscapes and public spaces, integrating cultural, recreational, and commercial functions within its porous urban fabric. ft.com

• Luyeyuan Stone Sculpture Art Museum (2002): Designed to house a private collection of Buddhist relics, this museum reflects Liu's dedication to blending traditional Chinese architecture with modern design principles. ​

• Suzhou Museum of Imperial Kiln Brick (2016): This project showcases Liu's innovative use of local materials and his commitment to preserving cultural heritage. ​

Jury Citation

The Pritzker Prize jury commended Liu for his ability to "imagine and construct new worlds, free from any aesthetic or stylistic constraint." They highlighted his use of "common sense and wisdom" as powerful tools in his design approach, leading to thoughtful and context-sensitive architecture. apnews.com+5en.wikipedia.org+5cadenaser.com+5theguardian.com+1yahoo.com+1

Liu Jiakun becomes the second Chinese architect to receive the Pritzker Prize, following Wang Shu in 2012, underscoring the global recognition of China's growing influence in contemporary architecture. ​architecturaldigest.com+1en.wikipedia.org+1