Liu Jiakun Wins 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize

Chinese architect Liu Jiakun has been awarded the 2025 Pritzker Prize, recognized for his people-centered approach to architecture that harmonizes cultural, historical, and social dimensions. His designs balance urban density with open space, creating environments that foster community, evoke emotion, and enhance everyday life.

Rather than adhering to a fixed style, Liu evaluates each project individually, integrating modernity with tradition. His work emphasizes material honesty, local craftsmanship, and sustainability. A notable example is his “Rebirth Bricks,” made from earthquake rubble, used in projects like West Village in Chengdu.

Born in 1956, Liu’s path to architecture was unconventional, shaped by his artistic interests and early years in rural China. After nearly abandoning the profession, he found renewed inspiration in the 1990s, leading to the founding of Jiakun Architects in 1999. His portfolio spans over 30 projects, including the Suzhou Museum of Imperial Kiln Brick, Lancui Pavilion, and Novartis Shanghai Block.

The Pritzker jury praised Liu for integrating architecture with urban life, offering a vision that is both pragmatic and poetic. His award will be formally presented in Abu Dhabi this spring.