Snøhetta wins Cooper Hewitt National Design Award, Snøhetta wins Cooper Hewitt National Design Award Images

Snøhetta wins Cooper Hewitt National Design Award

Oct 2, 2020

Cooper Hewitt National Design Award

On October 1, Snøhetta was honored as the recipient of the 2020

National September 11th Memorial Museum Pavilion – photo © Jeff Goldberg/Esto

National Design Award for Architecture, bestowed by Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum. Recognized at the annual gala, held virtually for the first time due to the pandemic, the trans-disciplinary studio was selected for the impact of their designs, particularly in the areas of social and environmental sustainability.

Ryerson University Student Learning Centre – photo © Lorne Bridgman

During October, Snøhetta will take part in several public events as part of National Design Month, including the Cooper Hewitt’s “Meet the Designers” Design Fair on October 13th, and leading a digital tour of their studio via Instagram Live on October 16th.

Ryerson University Student Learning Centre – photo © Lorne Bridgman

The National Design Awards were launched in 2000 as an official project of the White House Millennium Council, with the goal of increasing awareness and understanding of how design improves everyday life. Organized by Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, the Awards are bestowed annually in recognition of design innovation and impact. Nominations are made by the general public, and winners are selected by a diverse jury of design leaders and educators.

Calgary Public Library – photo © Michael Grimm

“Snøhetta was established on the belief that we can go further if we go together, and we have a long way to go,” said Craig Dykers, founding partner. “In a year such as this one, where we’re facing many challenges in the field of design and in the world at large, we’re honored to receive the National Design Award and be recognized for our achievements in sustainability and socially-conscious design. With this award, we feel empowered to continue to push the envelope of what great design can do.”

Ford Dearborn Master Plan – photo © Snøhetta and Plomp

Snøhetta places personal and social experience at the center of their design process. Their work engages the senses and physicality of the body, fosters social interaction, and promotes both individual and collective empowerment in the built environment.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina – photo © Gerald Zugmann

Since its inception, the practice has maintained its original trans-disciplinary approach, integrating architectural, landscape, interior, graphic design and product design into its projects. Its work focusing on biodiversity and habitat as well as with zero emissions has led to the practice being recognized as a leader in efforts to
address climate abuse in the building industry.

SFMOMA Expansion – photos © Jeff Goldberg/Esto