Rijksmuseum Amsterdam

The Spanish architects Cruz y Ortiz took the ‘catholic cathedral’ designed by the original architect Pierre Cuypers as a starting point in their aim to transform a large icon into an even larger one. The new subsurface layer streamlines the logistics of the museum, while the two impressive entrance spaces that have been developed in the inner courts are prime examples of beautiful light and shadow effects. The decision to ‘continue with Cuypers’ is a convincing one as his achievement has been matched down to the smallest detail. The new, understated architecture provides the necessary counterweight. This is a project of timeless class. Also because the architects and the client have stood their ground under the enormous political and public pressure connected to this prestigious project.

Nominee Best Building of the Year 2014