Diébédo Francis Kéré, architect, educator and social activist, has been selected as the 2022 Laureate of the Pritzker Architecture Prize. The most prestigious architecture prize has been awarded to the Burkina Faso-born architect, for his socially engaged projects, ranging from educational institutions to healthcare facilities.
“Francis Kéré is pioneering architecture - sustainable to the earth and its inhabitants - in lands of extreme scarcity . He is equally architect and servant, improving upon the lives and experiences of countless citizens in a region of the world that is at times forgotten”, says the Pritzker jury. “Through buildings that demonstrate beauty, modesty, boldness and invention, and by the integrity of his architecture and geste, Kéré gracefully upholds the mission of this Prize”.
Born in Gando and living in Berlin, the architect is known for architecture that transforms communities through the design process. Through his social commitment and skilful use of local materials to connect and respond to the natural climate, he works in marginalised countries fraught with constraints and adversity, lacking in public architecture and infrastructure.
Opening image: Diébédo Francis Kéré, portrait. Photo @ Lars Borges