Christelle Avenier, a prominent figure in the architectural world, has been named to the AR Emerging Awards jury for 2026. This announcement marks a significant milestone for Avenier, who has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of architecture in Paris. Her journey began in 2008 when she co-founded Avenier Cornejo Architectes with Miguel Cornejo, a partnership that has since gained international recognition for its innovative and socially conscious designs.
Avenier's work is deeply rooted in the realm of social housing, a field that has become a cornerstone of her practice. In 2017, Avenier Cornejo Architectes won the AR Emerging Awards for their groundbreaking design of 38 social apartments on Rue Bonnet in Paris. This project not only showcased the firm's architectural prowess but also highlighted their commitment to creating affordable and accessible housing solutions.
Since then, the firm has continued to push the boundaries of social housing, completing projects like the Auditorium for La Sirène, which includes housing for students and young people. This project, completed in 2024, exemplifies Avenier's dedication to integrating housing with other essential community facilities, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.
Avenier's current projects further underscore her commitment to social housing. The firm is collaborating with Déchelette Architecture on a stone-clad social housing project at ZAC Hébert in Paris, a testament to their ongoing innovation and adaptability in the field.
The AR Emerging Awards, inaugurated in 1999, play a crucial role in supporting young architects and designers at a pivotal stage in their careers. By recognizing excellence in an overall body of work, the awards provide a platform for emerging talent to showcase their best projects to a global audience. This year's awards, scheduled for November, will feature shortlisted projects in a special edition of the AR, with the finalists presenting their work to a distinguished judging panel.
Avenier's involvement in the jury for 2026 is a testament to her influence and expertise in the field. Her contributions to the awards will undoubtedly bring valuable insights and perspectives, further enriching the architectural community's understanding of innovative and socially responsible design.
