Ukrainian architect Livyj Bereh has been awarded the 2024 Royal Academy Dorfman Prize, securing the £10,000 (€12,000) prize for one of the most esteemed architectural accolades globally. Livyj Bereh, a volunteer organization operating in Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict, was recognized for its critical and timely response to the survival of communities. Among the four shortlisted candidates, Livyj Bereh stood out for its extensive work along the left bank of the Dnipro River, based out of Kyiv, where they have been rebuilding roofs, homes, schools, and hospitals. Jury chairs Tom Emerson OBE RA and Stephanie Macdonald OBE RA, from 6a architects, highlighted: “Their use of simple black corrugated metal roofs symbolizes a collective act of care and resistance across the nation, as impactful as any civic monument, documented with the unwavering gaze of the finest war art.” Kseniia Kalmus, co-founder of Livyj Bereh, expressed gratitude to the Royal Academy for the recognition and support, stating: “For our team, it is profoundly meaningful to receive acknowledgment of the significance of our work and the recognition of our efforts as a volunteer group.” Since May 2022, they have restored over 380 roofs in the Charkiv, Černihiv, and Kyiv regions, each costing approximately €2000. In addition to their hands-on restoration efforts, Livyj Bereh raises global awareness through exhibitions, documenting the cultural and architectural heritage endangered by the conflict. The Ukrainian organization was honored with the Dorfman Prize at a ceremony held at the Royal Academy in London on October 31. Sir Lloyd Dorfman commented on Livyj Bereh: “Their work in repairing roofs in Ukraine transcends mere architectural processes, restoring hope to communities ravaged by the ongoing conflict. I am proud that the RA Dorfman Prize continues to expand the horizons of architecture and introduce the world to inspiring international talent.” The other three nominees this year included bplus.xyz (b+), a collaborative architecture practice focused on reimagining and revitalizing existing structures. Notable projects by bplus.xyz include the mixed-use redevelopment of a former ship engine factory in Hamburg, MAGNUS+, and the transformation of a former lingerie factory in Potsdam into a brutalist-style weekend villa. Social engagement is central to TEN studio’s work, exemplified by the House for Five Women, a co-housing project in Bosnia-Herzegovina designed for single, socially disadvantaged women. Since 2017, 53-year-old architect and anthropologist Salima Naji has been leading the extensive restoration of Agadir, Morocco, a city severely damaged by a 1960 earthquake. In earthquake-prone Morocco, Naji’s work integrates local techniques with modern solutions, such as wood-reinforced stone walls for earthquake resilience, which she shares with local workers.
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