Paris-based architect Maurice Culot named 2019 Richard H. Driehaus Prize laureate

Today, the University of Notre-Dame announced architect, urbanist, theorist and critic Maurice Culot as the 2019 laureate of the Richard H. Driehaus Prize. Established in 2003, the award honors a living architect for their long-term significant contributions to the architecture discipline and whose work has made a positive impact in “keeping with the highest ideals of classical architecture in contemporary society." Previous laureates have included Scott Merrill, David M. Schwarz, Thomas H. Beeby, Michael Graves, and Robert A.M. Stern.

The Paris-based architect is influential for being at the forefront of the creation of the modern traditional movement. His longstanding career as a teacher and theorist has had a far-reaching impact, shaping the thinking and practice of architecture for generations. As President of ARCAS Architecture & Urbanism—which has offices in Paris, Belgium and Poland—Culot has overseen the construction of new neighborhoods and urban extensions with designs rooted in the history and culture of the particular region.

The jury noted Culot's extensive contributions to the field, noting how his work has "made it possible to recover the knowledge of the elements and principles that have defined the best urban environments across time and place that was nearly lost, providing a brighter future for cities, towns and villages around the globe." Michael Lykoudis, the Direhaus Prize jury chair echoed this sentiment, stating that his work has lead to "the retrieval and dissemination of knowledge about what makes a city vibrant and livable." 

Culot, who will be receiving a $200,000 prize, will be honored with a ceremony on March 23rd in Chicago.