Rafael Aranda, Carme Pigem and Ramon Vilalta have been selected as the 2017 Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureates, announced Tom Pritzker, Chairman of Hyatt Foundation, which sponsors the award that is known internationally as architecture’s highest honor.
Bell–Lloc Winery, 2007, Palamós, Girona, Spain. Photo by Hisao Suzuki
The three architects, originating from Olot, in the Catalonian region of Spain, have worked together collaboratively since founding their firm RCR Arquitectes, in their hometown in 1988.
Soulages Museum, 2014, Rodez, France – In collaboration with G. Trégouët. Photo by Hisao Suzuki
Their work demonstrates an unyielding commitment to place and its narrative, to create spaces that are in discourse with their respective contexts. Harmonizing materiality with transparency, Aranda, Pigem and Vilalta seek connections between the exterior and interior, resulting in emotional and experiential architecture.
Soulages Museum, 2014, Rodez, France – In collaboration with G. Trégouët. Photo by Hisao Suzuki
Mr. Pritzker remarks: “The jury has selected three architects who have been working collaboratively for nearly three decades. Mr. Aranda, Ms. Pigem and Mr. Vilalta have had an impact on the discipline far beyond their immediate area. Their works range from public and private spaces to cultural venues and educational institutions, and their ability to intensely relate the environment specific to each site is a testament to their process and deep integrity.”
El Petit Comte Kindergarten, 2010, Besalú, Girona, Spain – In collaboration with J. Puigcorbé. Photo by Hisao Suzuki
The locally-based architects evoke universal identity through their creative and extensive use of modern materials including recycled steel and plastic. “They’ve demonstrated that unity of a material can lend such incredible strength and simplicity to a building,” says Glenn Murcutt, Jury Chair. “The collaboration of these three architects produces uncompromising architecture of a poetic level, representing timeless work that reflects great respect for the past, while projecting clarity that is of the present and the future.”
Les Cols Restaurant Marquee 2011 Olot, Girona, Spain. Photo by Hisao Suzuki
This year, the Pritzker Prize ceremony will take place at the State Guest House, Akasaka Palace in Tokyo, Japan, on May 20, 2017.
Row House 2012 Olot, Girona, Spain. Photo by Hisao Suzuki
Image 1: Rafael Aranda, Carme Pigem and Ramon Vilalta. Photo by Javier Lorenzo Domínguez
All images courtesy of the Pritzker Architecture Prize
Discover: www.pritzkerprize.com
