Dorte Mandrup is Architect of the Year

In honour of her visionary work and artistic use of form, Dorte Mandrup has been awarded Architect of the Year at ICONIC Awards 2021: Innovative Architecture, organized by the German Design Council.

"Dorte Mandrup’s work is, to use her own description, 'characterized by formal agitation, which materializes in an in-depth, contextual analysis and explorative prototyping'. This preoccupation with the examination of the sculptural and material qualities of architecture results in spaces that place the focus on their surroundings and the conditions from which they arise. 

The result is spectacular buildings such as The Whale, the Ilulissat Icefjord Centre and the Karlskrona Culture House and Library, which astound viewers and sometimes even place them in a trance. But to bring such projects to life requires not just a creative, visionary force but also an associated degree of boldness, persuasiveness and an unconditional iron will to succeed. It is this rare mix of abilities and qualities that enables Dorte Mandrup to realize such outstanding achievements, which in turn enrich the world" - from the jury statement.

Dorte Mandrup joins the fine company of former recipients like Kengo Kuma & Associates, David Chipperfield Architects, Adjaye Associates, Heatherwick Studio and many more.

The awards ceremony will be on October 11th in Munich. Visit the ICONIC Award 2021 website to learn more here. 


Photo of the Wadden Sea Centre: Adam Mørk
Illustration of The Whale: 
Portrait: Cecilie Lindegaard Jensen