NL Architects Wins EU Mies van der Rohe Prize for DeFlat Kleiburg Renovation

For the first time, the EU Mies van der Rohe Prize has been awarded to the renovation of an existing building. The 2017 prize went to DeFlat Kleiburg, a project in Amsterdam by NL Architects and XVW architectuur. The consortium DeFlat saved the 500-unit honeycomb-shaped residential block in Bijlmermeer from demolition, transforming it into a 'Klusflat' where owners renovate their own units. The jury, chaired by Stephen Bates, praised the collective effort as 'ordinary but at the same time heroic,' noting that Kleiburg helps imagine a new type of architectural project responding to changing housing models. The renovation added elevators, lighting, storage, and common spaces while preserving the Brutalist character. The special mention for emerging architects went to Belgian firm MSA/V+ for NAVEZ – 5 social housing units at the north entrance of Brussels, recognized for accuracy and meticulous integration into the neighborhood. The award ceremony will take place on May 26 in Barcelona at the Mies van der Rohe Pavilion.