Renowned Chinese architect Liu Jiakun has been named this year’s Pritzker prize winner for his unique blend of tradition and innovation in architecture. His work often incorporates local materials, such as bamboo, to create buildings that not only reduce costs but also pay homage to the site’s history and culture.
Liu’s projects range from the Shuijingfang Museum in Chengdu, which showcases the region’s traditional spirit, to the West Village complex, a 200-meter-long city block that combines sports facilities, restaurants, galleries, and more. The latter project was an attempt to build his own kind of urban utopia, with a rooftop walkway that offered breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
One of Liu’s most notable achievements is the production of “rebirth bricks” after the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake. These innovative bricks were made from local materials and proved more efficient, cheaper, and stronger than traditional construction methods. The use of these bricks has become a signature of his work, evident in projects like the Shuijingfang Museum.
Liu’s approach to architecture is guided by a philosophy that strives for subtlety and integration with the environment. He often says, “I always aspire to be like water,” allowing his buildings to permeate into the surroundings without imposing their own fixed form.
With this year’s Pritzker prize win, Liu Jiakun solidifies his position as one of China’s most influential architects, pushing the boundaries of urban design and showcasing a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and environmental sensitivity.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/mar/04/liu-jiakun-winner-pritzker-prize-chinese