Why the 2025 Pritzker Prize Matters: Liu Jiakun and the Shift Toward Socially Responsible Architecture

Subscriber Access

For nearly the past two decades, cities around the world embraced "starchitecture"—futuristic, eye-catching buildings designed by globally renowned architects. In China, this trend was particularly pronounced as rapid urbanization fueled the construction of iconic megastructures like Zaha Hadid's Galaxy SOHO, OMA's CCTV Headquarters, and Herzog & de Meuron's Bird's Nest Stadium in Beijing. At the time of their construction, these were all celebrated as symbols of progress and global ambition. However, architecture worldwide has begun shifting toward a more context-driven, human-centered approach, with China emerging as one of the key contributors to this transformation. This year, Liu Jia Kun's 2025 Pritzker Prize further underscores that shift.

Why the 2025 Pritzker Prize Matters: Liu Jiakun and the Shift Toward Socially Responsible Architecture - Image 2 of 9Why the 2025 Pritzker Prize Matters: Liu Jiakun and the Shift Toward Socially Responsible Architecture - Image 3 of 9Why the 2025 Pritzker Prize Matters: Liu Jiakun and the Shift Toward Socially Responsible Architecture - Image 4 of 9Why the 2025 Pritzker Prize Matters: Liu Jiakun and the Shift Toward Socially Responsible Architecture - Image 5 of 9Why the 2025 Pritzker Prize Matters: Liu Jiakun and the Shift Toward Socially Responsible Architecture - More Images+ 4

This time the jury's decision is highlighting work that leads towards a more human-centered approach to architecture, one that values local culture, sustainability, and social engagement over aesthetic grandeur. Liu's work focuses on humility, tradition, and site awareness while embracing a quiet integration that responds to local needs. It focuses on letting the environment, history, and culture shape each project.

Content Loader

Image gallery

See allShow less
About this author
Cite: Moises Carrasco. "Why the 2025 Pritzker Prize Matters: Liu Jiakun and the Shift Toward Socially Responsible Architecture" 20 Mar 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1028016/why-the-2025-pritzker-prize-matters-liu-jiakun-and-the-shift-toward-socially-responsible-architecture> ISSN 0719-8884

Eastern Suburbs Memory / Liu Jiakun. Image © Arch-Exist

为何 2025 年普利兹克奖意义重大:刘家琨与社会责任建筑的转向

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.