Peter Zumthor named as architecture's Praemium Imperiale Laureate

Peter Zumthor wins architecture's 20th Praemium Imperiale laureate

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Peter Zumthor has been named as 20th Praemium Imperiale Laureate for architecture by the Japan Art Association today (16 September).

The award, at £75,000, is the richest in the architecture industry.

Swiss architect Zumthor is now part of a distinguished list of practitioners to be bestowed with Japan's cultural gong, including IM Pei, James Stirling, Frank Gehry, Álvaro Siza and Tadao Ando.

Speaking at the announcement, acting chairman of the Japan Art Associations Hisashi Hieda said: 'Twenty years ago, the Japan Art Association established the Praemium Imperiale to honour artists whose work has touched and inspired people across the globe.

'This anniversary year represents a significant milestone for us. The creative work of the Praemium Imperiale Laureates is timeless and transcends borders and nationalities.'

The Praemium Imperiale Laureates are also awarded in the disciplines of painting, sculpture, music and theatre/film.