A wooden water tower, a nature reserve, and a microlibrary made from recycled ice cream tubs are some of the projects on the shortlist for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture 2019.
Twenty projects from 16 different countries have been shortlisted for the award, established in 1977 by the Aga Khan Foundation to "encourage building concepts that successfully address the needs and aspirations of communities in which Muslims have a significant presence".
Warka Water, Dorza, by Arturio Vittori. Photo by Leone Magliocchetti Lombi
Awarded triennially, its $1 million (£774,000) jackpot makes it one of the most lucrative architecture awards in the world. As well as architectural excellence, the winner must demonstrate that it improves the overall quality of life for the people who use it. Several internationally renowned architecture practices made the shortlist, including OMA for the Concrete at Alserkal Avenue, a cultural events centre Dubai, and Snøhetta for the Muttrah Fish Market in Muscat. The Palestinian Museum by Heneghan Peng Architects has also made the list.
Palestinian Museum, Birzeit, by Heneghan Peng Architects. Photo by Cemal Emden
Many of the shortlisted projects have strong social justice or sustainability aspects including Arturio Vittori's Warka Water project in Ethiopia, which is bringing sustainable and clean drinking water to remote areas. The Italian architect developed a system of bamboo poles and mesh netting that harvests water from the ai...