The Wadden Sea Centre nominated for the Mies van der Rohe Award

The Wadden Sea Centre emerges out of the flat marshland on the coast near the Wadden Sea - the largest unbroken tidal system in the world. It is virtually impossible not to be inspired by this ancient natural scenery. With the Wadden Sea Centre, we have designed a one of a kind building that pays homage to the context from which it arises and creates a deeper understanding for a crucial natural habitat for 15 million migratory birds. The jury of the Mies Award agrees and has nominated the building for the European Prize for Contemporary Architecture- Mies van der Rohe Award 2022.

Through a synergy of nature, art, and architecture the building creates awareness of these important UNESCO-protected wetlands and contributes to a sustainable development of the peripheral rural area. The sculptural adaptation of thatching reeds not only re-actualizes a traditional local craft but also a sustainable building material.

The European Commission and the Fundació Mies van der Rohe has announced 85 additional works to the list of nominated works. The Wadden Sea Centre is now among the 532 works competing for the 2022 European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture.

“The EU Mies Award as the resulting work of a strong network of Europeans, shows that quality can be understood in many different ways but that it must always be connected to the present challenges with the environment and make cities and infrastructure more sustainable and resilient,” says Anna Ramos, director Fundació Mies van der Rohe.

The new cycle of the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture – Mies van der Rohe Award will reflect on the current challenges that architects, clients, policy makers and other professionals are faced with.

The Wadden Sea Centre fosters a deep appreciation of all aspects of the surrounding context. By creating a destination in the landscape, it is creating awareness, knowledge and a deeper appreciated of our natural and cultural heritage.


Photos: Adam Mørk
 

Partners

Steensen & Varming, Engineer

Anders Christensen, Engineer

Marianne Levinsen Landskab, Landscape Architect

JAC studios + Jason Bruges & No Parking, Exhibition

Fortheloveoflight, Lighting Design