Christelle Avenier, the co-founder of Avenier Cornejo Architectes, has been named a judge for the AR Emerging Awards 2026. This is a significant recognition for Avenier Cornejo, who previously won the AR Emerging Awards in 2017 with their innovative design for brick social housing in Clichy, on the outskirts of Paris. The practice's focus on social housing has been a cornerstone of their work, and their recent projects, such as the Auditorium for La Sirène with housing for students and young people, further solidify their commitment to this cause.
Avenier Cornejo's expertise in social housing is evident in their latest endeavor, a collaboration with Déchelette Architecture on a stone social housing project at ZAC Hébert in Paris. This project showcases the practice's ability to adapt their design philosophy to different materials and contexts, while maintaining their core values of social responsibility and architectural excellence.
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, rather than a single project, the awards provide a platform for emerging talent to showcase their creativity and impact. This year's awards will feature shortlisted projects in a special edition of the AR, with all finalists presenting their work to a renowned judging panel in London in November. The winner will receive a £5,000 prize, further highlighting the importance of these awards in fostering the next generation of architectural innovation.
Avenier Cornejo's involvement in the AR Emerging Awards 2026 is a testament to their influence and impact in the architectural world. Their previous success and ongoing commitment to social housing make them a valuable addition to the judging panel. As a judge, Avenier will contribute to the selection of the next generation of emerging architects, helping to shape the future of the industry and inspire young talent.
