Beyond Design Awards · MMXXVI
Joost van der Vecht
Independent
Winner of the category
Economy of Form
For knowing that restraint is not absence, but a particularly exacting form of presence.
The jury notedAs winner of Economy of Form, Joost Van Der Vecht brings a disciplined clarity to his work at Independent. His admiration for SANAA, preference for black and affinity with wood reveal an instinct for reduction without sterility. Mountains, climbing and a lasting regard for nature lend that restraint both purpose and perspective.
And also, winner of
Architecture of the Year
For buildings that will still make sense in a hundred years.
The jury notedHaving reviewed the evidence, and some of the gossip, we found, on closer inspection, ideas that travel well, particularly to and from Mountains and an understanding of architecture at the edge of disappearing that cannot be faked. History, we suspect, will pretend to have seen it coming. Your remark, “Loving nature”, was read aloud more than once. You are hereby named winner of this category, by unanimous and faintly emotional decision.
Recorded in two categories
· Entry verified 18 September 2026
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