Social housing architects Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal, founders of French studio Lacaton & Vassal, have been named the 2021 winners of the Pritzker Architecture Prize.
French architects Lacaton and Vassal were named the winners of the award for their body of work that "reflects architecture's democratic nisirit" and their "commitment to a restorative architecture".
Their recognition marks the first time a French female architect has won the prize, with Lacaton becoming the sixth woman to receive the award since it was established in 1979.
Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal have won the 2021 Pritzker Architecture Prize. Photo by Laurent Chalet
The pair were recognised for the numerous social housing projects they have undertaken as principals of the Paris-based studio Lacaton & Vassal. "Not only have they defined an architectural approach that renews the legacy of modernism, but they have also proposed an adjusted definition of the very profession of architecture," said the jury.
"The modernist hopes and dreams to improve the lives of many are reinvigorated through their work that responds to the climatic and ecological emergencies of our time, as well as social urgencies, particularly in the realm of urban housing."
The studio won the Mies van der Rohe award for its social housing in Grand Parc Bordeaux (above and top)
The studio's major housing projects include its restoration of three social housing blocks in...