“Demolishing is a decision of easiness and short term. It is a waste of many things – a waste of energy, a waste of material, and a waste of history. Moreover, it has a very negative social impact. For us, it is an act of violence.” Anne Lacaton
The work of Parisian architecture practice Lacaton & Vassal illustrates the experimental handling of existing buildings like no other. The studio prefers renovation to destruction, giving a second life to existing buildings. This caring design attitude is already evident in their early work. They maintain it in all the commissions they have since completed. From cultural buildings like the Palais de Tokyo cultural centre in Paris to their large-scale approach to post-war social housing. Everywhere, they work with attention to the cost-effective use of materials and building techniques. The user's well-being and quality of life are the central focus at all times.
In 2021, Lacaton & Vassal received the prestigious international Pritzker Architecture Prize. The jury praises their 'restorative architecture'.
