British Architect Wins World's Largest Architecture Prize

John Simpson awarded $200,000 Driehaus Prize for traditional urbanism and architecture

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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British architect John Simpson has been awarded the 2026 Richard H. Driehaus Prize, the world's largest architecture prize at $200,000. This recognition, bestowed by the University of Notre Dame, celebrates Simpson's work that exemplifies the growing New Classical movement, which champions designing in classical styles that emphasize proportion, harmony, and human scale.

Why it matters

Simpson's work aligns with the New Classical movement, which is gaining momentum as it offers an alternative to modernist architecture that has been criticized for creating sterile, isolating environments. The movement emphasizes creating buildings and spaces that are beautiful, functional, and contribute to a sense of place, which is increasingly important in an era focused on sustainability and community.

The details

Simpson's award-winning projects include buildings at the Royal College of Music in London and a master plan for the area around St Paul's Cathedral. The New Classical movement is not about simply replicating the past, but rather understanding the principles of traditional architecture that have underpinned successful urban environments for centuries.

  • The 2026 Richard H. Driehaus Prize ceremony will be held at the Driehaus Museum in Chicago on March 21.

The players

John Simpson

A British architect who has been awarded the 2026 Richard H. Driehaus Prize, the world's largest architecture prize at $200,000.

Philippe Villeneuve

A French architect who will receive the 2026 Henry Hope Reed Award for his 'visionary leadership' in the restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris.

University of Notre Dame

The institution that awards the Richard H. Driehaus Prize, recognizing outstanding achievements in traditional urbanism and architecture.

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The takeaway

The growing emphasis on traditional architecture and urbanism, as exemplified by John Simpson's Driehaus Prize win, suggests a shift towards designing buildings and communities that are sustainable, functional, and reflective of local identity and cultural heritage.