RCR Arquitectes – We have Roots, but also Wings

Catalan office RCR Arquitectes was awarded the Pritzker Prize for its regional, social and sustainable architecture.

This year, many were surprised about the laureates of the prestigious Pritzker Prize also known as the Nobel Prize for Architecture. Contrary to the usual distinction of globally represented architects, decision was made in favor of Catalan architecture firm RCR Arquitectes. The choice for an office, which focuses on a social, regional and sustainable architecture, marks a clear turn from the existing star cult. The jury’s reasoning also states. “Their works admirably and poetically fulfill the traditional requirements of architecture for physical and spatial beauty along with function and craftsmanship, but what sets them apart is their approach that creates buildings and places that are both local and universal at the same time.”

RCR Arquitectes, Pritzker-Preis

Rafael Aranda, Carme Pigem and Ramon Vilalta, Photo by Javier Lorenzo Domínguez

Soulages Museum, RCR Arquitectes, Pritzker-Preis

Soulages Museum, Rodez, France, 2014. Photo by Hisao Suzuki

RCR Arquitectes, Pritzker-Preis, Soulages Museum

Soulages Museum, Rodez, France, 2014. Photo by Hisao Suzuki

Sant Antoni, Joan Oliver Library, RCR Arquitectes, Pritzker-Preis

Sant Antoni – Joan Oliver Library, Senior Citizens Center and Cándida Pérez Gardens, Barcelona, Spain, 2007. Photo by Hisao Suzuki

La Lira Theater, RCR Arquitectes, Pritzker-Preis

La Lira Theater Public Open Space, Ripoll, Spain, 2011. Photo by Hisao Suzuki

RCR Arquitectes, Pritzker-Preis, La Lira Theater

La Lira Theater Public Open Space, Ripoll, Spain, 2011. Photo by Hisao Suzuki

Row House, RCR Arquitectes, Pritzker-Preis

Row House, Olot, Spain, 2012. Photo by Hisao Suzuki

Bell-Lloc Winery, RCR Arquitectes, Pritzker-Preis

Bell-Lloc Winery, 2007. Photos by Hisao Suzuki