Mies van der Rohe Award announces 2026 finalists

The jury noted their “exemplary contribution to the future of European architecture”, reported the Dezeen.

The organizers emphasize that in the face of political, environmental, and social challenges, these projects demonstrate the power of thoughtful and responsible design.

The chairman of the Mies van der Rohe jury, Chilean architect Smiljan Radić, highlighted the authors’ attention to context and people. Jury member architect Rosa Rull added that the finalists show how architecture shapes shared space and the urban landscape, and reveal the diversity of approaches to the reuse of buildings.

Palais des Expositions in Charleroi (Belgium)

Brussels-based studio AgwA, together with Ghent-based Architecten Jan de Vylder Inge Vinck, renovated a 1950s exhibition center, transforming it into a multifunctional cultural space.

Rehabilitation of Vapor Cortès – Prodis 1923, Terrassa (Spain)

Studio H Arquitectes adapted a complex of old warehouses into a new hub for the Prodis community organization. The architects introduced wooden structures around a restored walkway that functions as a kind of “city street.”

Lot 8, Arles (France)

A former 19th-century depot has been transformed into a circular design laboratory for Atelier Luma. The project was carried out by Assemble and BC Architects, actively using biomaterials — in particular salt and sunflower.

Gruž Market, Dubrovnik (Croatia)

Slovenian studio ARP/ Peračić-Veljačić updated the city market by adding a lightweight adjustable roof, improving the comfort and flexibility of the space.

Josephine Baker – Marie-José Pérec Sports and Cultural Centre, La Bouilliere (France)

The new sports and cultural center by Onze04 studio features an undulating textile roof that provides natural light and ventilation and serves as a venue for regional competitions.

Two “new voices” are finalists in the Emerging category

• Multi-Service Cultural Centre Le Foirail, Laguève (France) — a project by Betillon & Freyermuth together with Crypto Architectes.

• Temporary Spaces for Slovenian National Theatre Drama, Ljubljana (Slovenia) — temporary spaces in a reconstructed industrial hall from the Vidic Grohar Arhitekti studio.

When will the winners be announced?

The Mies van der Rohe Prize is awarded every two years by the European Commission and the Fundació Mies van der Rohe. The winners in the two categories will be announced on 16 April 2026, as part of the European Capital of Culture 2026 programme. The ceremony will take place in Barcelona in May.

Among previous laureates — Study Pavilion with a metal frame by Gustav Düsing and Max Gacke, who in 2024 became the youngest architects to receive this award.

 

 

See also:

When memory is built in violation of the law: architects and researchers on the crisis surrounding the National Memorial Cemetery

In Barcelona, ​​the Casa Batlló was opened to visitors: it operates as an art gallery

Inspira SP office tower built in São Paulo with a new approach to high-rise architecture