The most important European prize for architecture was awarded this year to the Italian architect Alessandro Mendini. The prize distinguishes professionals that changed and challenged the direction of contemporary architecture. Its promoted by The European Centre for Architecture, Art, Design and Urban Studies and The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design. 

As stated in the press release: «As an architect, philosopher, architectural theorist, visionary, and design practitioner, the influence of Alessandro Mendini in contemporary architecture spans close to half a century; and for his contribution to architecture theory, design, and the profession, he has been named as the recipient of the 2014 European Prize for Architecture.»