Born Charles-Edouard Jeanneret in 1887 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Le Corbusier is a major figure in modern architecture. Until now, no prize bore his name, but this gap has now been filled thanks to the initiative of the Le Corbusier Prize association, based in his hometown.
According to Stefan Rudy, architect and promoter of the prize, this distinction aims to encourage Le Corbusier's “state of mind”.
“He is an emblematic figure, often described as the father of modern architecture. (…) He shook up a lot of dogmas. (…) We seek to reward architects who, like Le Corbusier, dare to go to the “beyond traditional teachings to explore new horizons”, he explains on Wednesday in the RTS Forum show.
The prize will be awarded each year in a city where Le Corbusier left an architectural work. With projects spread across 37 countries, the organizers wish to recall the international scope of its influence.
Competition open to the whole world
“We have participants from Mexico, Israel, France, Germany and even Bangladesh,” says Stefan Rudy. “I find it extraordinary to see that many architects are interested in this prize and want to be winners.”
Projects submitted must have been completed or in progress within the last ten years. However, beyond the temporal criteria, it is above all the fundamental values of the prize which take precedence: innovation, sustainability and even creativity.
One specific criterion particularly reflects Le Corbusier's legacy: the social and programmatic approach.
“Le Corbusier was someone who sought to provoke politicians, a visionary capable of constructing gigantic buildings and even an entire city like Chandigarh. This raises an essential question: what habitat are we proposing today? We are waiting for architects that they provide inspiring answers, capable of nourishing reflection and opening new perspectives for the profession”, underlines Stefan Rudy.
Financing by architects, for architects
Funding for the prize is mainly based on participant registration fees. With a goal of 1,000 registrations for a total budget of 500,000 francs, the organization remains cautious.
“Today we have enough participants to present this prize, but there is still a way to go,” says Stefan Rudy. Although sponsorship is not excluded, the organizers wish to avoid any influence from big brands in order to preserve their independence.
Mixed reception in Geneva
Initially planned for Geneva, the award ceremony next May remains uncertain. Despite a favorable reception from local cultural authorities, the project did not receive the political support hoped for.
“Unfortunately, politicians do not see our prize as an initiative to really support. We will decide in January whether the ceremony will be held in Geneva or elsewhere,” regrets Stefan Rudy.
Essential distinctions for architects
In the world of architecture, distinctions play a crucial role. “Architects, like other professions, have a large ego. Being recognized by your peers is essential to exist and find a place in this competitive field,” concludes Stefan Rudy.
Comments collected by Mehmet Gultas
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