We’re always excited to bring you news on the latest awarded architects for their contemporary achievements and advancement of the field – whether it be our coverage of the Pritzker, AIA Honor Awards, or the Aga Khan awards, to name a few. Yet, the Richard H. Driehaus Prize is one prize that recognizes architects whose work embraces the ideas and theories of the past. Specifically, the prize is bestowed upon those who work ”embodies the principals of traditional and classical architecture and urbanism in contemporary society.” Robert A. M. Stern, dean of Yale School of Architecture and principal of his firm, has been named the 2011 recipient of the Driehaus Prize for his commitment to incorporating classical theories into his projects of all scales. According to Stern, the firm is grounded in the belief of “…continuity of tradition and strive in our work to create order out of the often chaotic present by entering into a dialogue with the past and with the spirit of the places in which we build.”
More about the award after the break.
Stern told the NYTimes, ” ‘It embodies a recognition of the continuity of the classical principles, the values of the public realm and town planning which I have tried embody in my career.’ He added that it was good to be recognized ‘not just for a set of pretty buildings, but for a set of values and principles and ideals.’ ”
Mr. Stern will receive $200,000 and a model of the Choregic Monument of Lysikrates at the awards’ ceremony in March. According to the NYTimes, Mr. Stern said he planned to give the prize money to Yale in support of classical architecture.
