Thinking architecture holistically

The creators of architecture and design bring with them an increased awareness of how to deal with the historical or urban context in which a building is created, and integrate existing resources as well as a clever choice of materials into the design process. Here, architecture is increasingly viewed holistically.

At this year's ICONIC AWARDS 2022: Innovative Architecture, which are awarded annually by the German Design Council, both visionary projects and very specific building solutions have been honoured. Among them are outstanding international building projects, innovative interior and product design as well as convincing communication concepts in an architectural context. With the special awards, the German Design Council also honoured Herzog & de Meuron as "Architects of the Year" and Matteo Thun & Partners as "Interior Designers of the Year". The honorary award "Architects' Client of the Year" was given to the city of Bruges for the project "The Bruges Diptych".

The Basel architect duo Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron probably know the building industry better than very few. With their projects, they have been shaping the architectural and urban landscape for over forty years and have realised buildings on almost every continent. With an awareness of an appropriate approach, they create very specific buildings, surprising forms and novel spatial experiences. Recently, the architects demonstrated this with the discreet extension of the Küppersmühle Museum in Duisburg's inner harbour. Their projects have the potential to become icons of architecture. The Elbe Philharmonic Hall in Hamburg or the extension to the Tate Modern Museum in London are not only known to architectural experts, but also inspire users and city tourists alike: Architecture that makes a lasting impression on the image of the city and creates quality there – for this, the duo received the honorary award "Architects of the Year".

The jury's choice for the title "Interior Designers of the Year" this year fell on Matteo Thun & Partners. As an internationally renowned architect and designer, Thun stands for the successful interaction of all disciplines. His working method is characterised by interdisciplinary know-how, a sustainable design approach and site-specific solutions. Whether in product design or clinic interiors – his projects always convince with timeless, durable and reduced design and a holistic design approach. In the case of the Waldklinikum in Eisenberg from 2020, Thun most recently demonstrated how closely architecture, interior and furniture design are interlinked and can be used to great effect.

Whether in interior design as wall panelling, for furniture fittings or as a central element in renovations – wood remains a trendy building material and its qualities are obvious. For the temporary pavilion "The Bruges Diptych", which was created for the Bruges Triennial 2021, the American architect Jon Lott also opted for a purely wooden construction. The pavilion floats suspensefully on pontoons between the walls of the old town of Bruges and combines historical architecture with modern design language at a high design level. An inspiring place that also promotes a holistic understanding of architecture. With the honorary award "Architects' Client of the Year", the jury acknowledges the special commitment of the city of Bruges to this project.

With the ICONIC AWARDS: Innovative Architecture, the German Design Council honours architecture and design achievements worldwide and makes them visible. Further information on the winners and the start of the competition for the ICONIC AWARDS 2023: Innovative Architecture here.

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