Get ready to be inspired—the Mies van der Rohe Award has just unveiled its 2026 finalists, and they’re a testament to the transformative power of architecture. But here’s where it gets controversial: among the seven contenders, five are regeneration projects, sparking a debate about whether repurposing old structures is more impactful than creating entirely new ones. Let’s dive in.
This year’s shortlist includes five architecture finalists and two emerging talents, spanning Belgium, Spain, France, Slovenia, and Croatia. Each project is celebrated for its “exemplary contributions to the future of European architecture”—a bold claim in a continent grappling with political, environmental, and social challenges. The awarding body emphasizes that these designs “offer hope and demonstrate the enduring value of thoughtful, engaged design.” But is hope enough to address Europe’s pressing issues? That’s a question worth exploring.
Chaired by Chilean architect Smiljan Radić, the jury praised the projects for their “considerate and careful interventions that create meaningful spaces for people.” Architect and jury member Rosa Rull adds, “These finalists show how architecture shapes shared spaces and defines the urban landscapes where our lives unfold.” And this is the part most people miss: the diversity of approaches to reusing existing structures—a trend that’s both sustainable and thought-provoking.
Take, for instance, the Charleroi Palais des Expositions in Belgium. Designed by AgwA and Architecten Jan de Vylder Inge Vinck, this mixed-use cultural building breathes new life into a 1950s convention center. Similarly, H Arquitectes’ Rehabilitation of Vapor Cortès - Prodis 1923 in Spain transforms warehouses into a non-profit hub, complete with a wooden structure that doubles as a “street for the city.” Is this the future of urban renewal, or just a passing trend?
Another standout is Lot 8, a 19th-century train depot in Arles, France, reimagined as a circular-design lab by Assemble and BC Architects. Using biomaterials like salt and sunflowers, the project challenges traditional construction methods. Meanwhile, the Gruž Market in Dubrovnik, Croatia, gets a modern twist with an adjustable, lightweight roof by ARP/Peračić-Veljačić. But here’s a counterpoint: while these projects are innovative, do they truly address the needs of the communities they serve, or are they just architectural showpieces?
Among the new builds, the Josephine Baker - Marie-Jose Perec Sports and Cultural Centre in France stands out with its sweeping textile roof, designed by Onze04 to maximize natural light and ventilation. The emerging finalists include the Multi-Service Cultural Centre Le Foirail in France and temporary spaces for the Slovenian National Theatre Drama in Ljubljana—both pushing boundaries in their own right.
The winners will be announced on April 16 at the European Capital of Culture 2026, followed by a ceremony in Barcelona in May. Past winners, like the steel-framed Study Pavilion by Gustav Düsing and Max Hacke, set a high bar. But as we applaud these achievements, let’s ask ourselves: What does the future of architecture look like, and who gets to decide?
What’s your take? Do regeneration projects deserve more recognition, or should we prioritize new builds? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
