Arata Isozaki: 2019 Pritzker Architecture Prize Winner

The 2019 Laureate of the Pritzker Architecture Prize will be awarded to the prolific, visionary Japanese architect Arata Isozaki at a ceremony in France this May. The 87-year-old Japanese architect with over 100 built works over a career spanning six decades is known as an architect’s architect.

Arata Isozaki

Beginning his career during the era following World War II, he was instrumental in the rebuilding of his own country. However, he was also a pioneer in understanding the architectural challenge of reconciling global and local forces. His profound knowledge of architectural history and theory shaped his fluid, avant-garde approach which interprets the needs of each environment in a conscious, detailed format to connect global universality with local identity.

“Isozaki was one of the first Japanese architects to build outside of Japan during a time when western civilizations traditionally influenced the East, making his architecture-which was distinctively influenced by his global citizenry – truly international,” comments Tom Pritzker, Chairman of Hyatt Foundation. “In a global world, architecture needs that communication.”

Palau Sant Jordi, Spain
Photo: Hisao Suzuki

According to the 2019 Jury Citation, “He never merely replicated the status quo, but his search for meaningful architecture was reflected in his buildings that to this day, defy stylistic categorizations. His are constantly evolving, and always fresh in their approach.”

Isozaki is the 46^th Laureate of the Pritzker Prize and the eighth Japanese architect to receive this prestigious commendation.

Domus: La Casa del Hombre, Spain
Photo: Hisao Suzuki

All photos courtesy of Pritzker Architecture Prize