The OBEL AWARD is presented by the Henrik Frode Obel Foundation, based in Copenhagen, Denmark, and founded by Henrik Frode Obel (1942-2014). The foundation has a board of governors and a secretariat.

Besides presenting the annual OBEL AWARD, the foundation presents exhibitions and events in order to stimulate debate about the role of architecture and to promote the circulation of new ideas across disciplines and continents. The foundation also awards internationalisation funds and travel grants to students of architecture in order to promote architectural excellence and a global perspective within academia.

FAQ

What does the prize entail?

The winning project receives a prize sum of €100,000. The winner also becomes a member of the award winner network and will be invited to all OBEL AWARD ceremonies and events.

The award winner is expected to give a masterclass or lecture which is open to the public.

When is the award presented?

The award ceremony takes place every year on 21 October – the birthday of the founder Henrik Frode Obel.

What are the criteria for the award?

The award is given to physical works or projects inaugurated within the past five years. The award can be given to an architect or group of architects, and the award-winning projects can range from manifesto to master plan and include buildings, landscape projects, and exhibitions.

The OBEL AWARD can be won by any eligible candidate regardless of nationality, ethnicity, gender, race, religion, ideology, or age.

How can I apply?

We do not accept applications for the OBEL AWARD. Identifying a winning project takes place in a closed process.

How is the jury picked?

Discovering and evaluating seminal works of architecture requires high professional competence as well as an ability to see the big picture. Therefore, the OBEL AWARD appoints a jury that consists of members with a strong architectural profile but also distinguished professionals from other backgrounds.

The jury consists of 4-7 members, and each member may be appointed for a maximum of 2 x 3 years. The head of the jury is appointed for a maximum of 3 x 3 years.

Where do the funds come from?

The Henrik Frode Obel Foundation draws on the endowment left by Henrik Frode Obel. Each year, a portion of the proceeds from the endowment goes to the award prize sum, the travel grants, the internationalisation funds, and the exhibitions, lectures, and other events to promote the circulation of new ideas.

Is the Henrik Frode Obel Foundation related to the Obel Family Foundation?

No. Although Henrik Frode Obel was a member of the Obel family, the foundations are separate. The Obel Family Foundation is a national foundation, operating exclusively within Denmark, while the Henrik Frode Obel Foundation has an international focus and reach.