Liu Jiakun, of Chengdu, China, has been named the 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate. “Instead of a style, he has developed a strategy that never relies on a recurring method but rather on evaluating the specific characteristics and requirements of each project differently,” states the jury citation. His works, including West Village in Chengdu and the Suzhou Museum of Imperial Kiln Brick, reinterpret traditional forms while responding to contemporary social and environmental needs.
“Liu Jiakun uplifts through the process and purpose of architecture, fostering emotional connections that unite communities,” states Tom Pritzker, Chairman of The Hyatt Foundation. Jury Chair Alejandro Aravena adds, “He has found a way to build places that are a building, infrastructure, landscape, and public space at the same time.” Liu’s work integrates local materials and craftsmanship, balancing historical influences with modern functionality. His Rebirth Bricks, made from the rubble of the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, are used in projects such as Novartis Block – C6 and West Village, demonstrating his commitment to sustainability and reuse.
Liu describes his approach: “Architecture should reveal something—it should abstract, distill, and make visible the inherent qualities of local people.” His projects prioritize cultural heritage and human experience, creating spaces that support public life and community engagement. The award ceremony will take place in Abu Dhabi, marking the first time the Pritzker Prize is celebrated in the Arab world. Image of West Village courtesy of Qian Shen Photography. Pritzker Prize
