Fernando Menis Project in Spain has been declared the World Building of the Year

The ultimate accolades of World Building of the Year, World Interior of the Year, Future Project of the Year, and Landscape of the Year were announced today by World Architecture Festival 2025. Special Prizes, including the American Beauty Prize, were also announced.

Winners

World Building of the Year

• The Holy Redeemer Church and Community Centre of Las Chumberas
  Location: La Laguna, Spain
  Architect: Fernando Menis

World Building of the Year
HERO_The Holy Redeemer Church and Community Centre of Las Chumberas by Fernando Menis
Photo credit: © Roland Halbeerk und Beleg / Copyrightpermission required for reproduction, Photocredit: Roland Halbe]

Serving as a catalyst for urban renewal in a neglected suburban district, this church and community centre rises as a landmark within a fragmented built environment. Constructed in phases due to donation-based funding, the project comprises four independent volumes completed over time. Inspired by volcanic landscapes, its bold, rough-hewn forms contrast sharply with the surroundings, while narrow light-filled fissures create a minimalist and spiritual interior. Innovative concrete applications deliver remarkable acoustics comparable to an opera house. The project was commended for balancing symbolic presence with everyday community needs.

World Building of the Year
The Holy Redeemer Church and Community Centre of Las Chumberas by Fernando Menis
Photo credit: © Simona Rota

World Building of the Year
The Holy Redeemer Church and Community Centre of Las Chumberas by Fernando Menis
Photo credit: © Hisao Suzuki

World Interior of the Year

• FRACTAL CHAPEL
  Location: Graz, Austria
  Architect: INNOCAD architecture

World Interior of the Year
FRACTAL CHAPEL at State Hospital Graz by INNOCAD architecture
Photo credit: © Paul Ott

Located within a state hospital, this compact chapel offers patients, staff, and visitors a peaceful retreat. Grounded in neuroscience and environmental psychology, the design integrates biophilic elements and scientifically developed fractal patterns to support emotional well-being and reduce stress. Custom-generated fractal graphics form a visually calming environment, complemented by a warm, wood-based interior palette. With an 8-meter double-height space and a one-of-a-kind altar carved from walnut rootstock, the chapel cultivates an atmosphere conducive to introspection and quiet contemplation.

Future Project of the Year

• Gelephu International Airport
  Location: Gelephu, Bhutan
  Architect: BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group

Future Project of the Year
Gelephu International Airport by BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group
Photo credit: © BIG

Planned as Bhutan’s second international gateway, this airport blends traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation. Designed to open in 2029, it emphasizes mindfulness through the use of natural light, a triple-height entry sequence, skylights, and expansive glazing. A timber diagrid structure—constructed from sustainably sourced local wood—supports environmental performance and showcases Bhutanese artisanal heritage. The layout enhances passenger experience with panoramic Himalayan views and includes spaces for yoga and meditation. The airport will also act as the country’s first inland mobility hub, connecting broader regional transport networks.

Future Project of the Year
Gelephu International Airport by BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group
Photo credit: © BIG

Future Project of the Year
Gelephu International Airport by BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group
Photo credit: © BIG

Landscape of the Year

• Embracing Flood: Xinjiang River Ecological Corridor
  Location: Shangrao City, Jiangxi Province, China
  Architect: Turenscape

Future Project of the Year
Embracing Flood – Xinjiang River Ecological Corridor by Turenscape
Photo credit: © Turenscape

Transforming a 102-hectare floodplain, this project revitalizes the Xinjiang River corridor into a biodiverse ecological and recreational landscape. Applying sponge city principles, it improves flood resilience, restores native habitats, and provides year-round public access. Rather than resisting seasonal flooding, the design embraces water as a dynamic natural force, creating an adaptable landscape that enhances urban resilience. With its low-cost, low-maintenance strategy, the project has become a regional landmark and a scalable model for flood-prone cities around the world.

For details of the winners including special prizes you can view at the official website.

World Architecture Festival (WAF)

World Architecture Festival will take place at Miami Beach Convention Center from 12 - 14 November 2025. Situated in the heart of South Beach and the iconic Art Deco District. WAF is where the world architecture community meets to celebrate, learn, exchange and be inspired.