Two projects by architecture firm Dialog have won 2019 International Architecture Awards.
The only Canadian project that was awarded this year is the Edmonton Funicular, which is recognized in the bridges and infrastructure category. Crosstown Concourse, designed by LRK in association with dialog is recognized in the restoration/renovation category.
The deep, steep slopes of the North Saskatchewan River Valley are intrinsic to the funicular’s beauty and character, but they also make access difficult for people with mobility challenges. An unfortunate network of roadways cuts off the north riverbank and downtown Edmonton from the valley and its trail system. The Mechanized River Valley Access, often called the Edmonton Funicular, was imagined to address this connectivity challenge.
Founded in 2005, the International Architecture Awards, organized by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies is the oldest, annual public celebration of global architecture that sees practices around the world compete for the title of “Global Building of the Year.”
The International Architecture Awards are the only non-commercial, global, and public awards program given jointly by two not-for-profit museums in the United States and Europe dedicated to public education concerning architecture and industrial design.
“Following a rigorous process from a record number of international submissions, this year’s 2019 shortlist of 350 projects highlights the amazing work done by the talented architecture visionaries whose talent and innovation have created talking points that will span generations,” said Christian Narkiewicz-Laine, Museum President, The Chicago Athenaeum
This year’s award recipients are selected from 41 nations. The projects on the shortlist were judged against a range of criteria including design vision; innovation and originality; capacity to stimulate, engage and delight occupants and visitors; accessibility and sustainability; how fit the building is for its purpose and the level of client satisfaction.
