Jury 2026

Carl Bäckstrand (1966), is an architect and Deputy CEO of White Arkitekter, a leading Scandinavian firm recognized for its pioneering work in sustainable architecture and urban design. With a Master’s in Architecture from Lund University, further studies in landscape architecture at the Royal Academy of Arts in Copenhagen, and urban design at MIT, he brings a robust and interdisciplinary educational background. In his White Arkitekter role, Carl oversees global strategy, expanding the firm’s footprint in Europe, North America, Africa, and beyond, while championing climate-neutral objectives and innovative urban planning methods. Known for his leadership in policy discussions around resilience and sustainable mobility, Carl is a prominent voice on the future of cities in both professional and public forums.

Chris Briffa (1974) is a Maltese architect and designer based in Valletta. He is the founder of Chris Briffa Architects, a practice known for sensitive contemporary interventions in Malta’s historic urban fabric. His work ranges from private residences and cultural buildings to exhibition design and urban projects, often exploring adaptive reuse and contextual design. He is active in architectural education, curation and discourse both in Malta and internationally, and is recognised for a clear, refined approach that balances modernity with the island’s material, climatic, and cultural heritage.

Zaiga Gaile (1951) is a Latvian architect and preservationist known for her work in revitalising Riga’s historic architecture. She graduated from the Faculty of Architecture at Riga Technical University.
She founded Zaigas Gailes Birojs, a practice dedicated to the adaptive reuse of historic buildings, transforming old wooden houses, warehouses, and industrial structures into vibrant contemporary spaces while respecting their heritage. Her work carefully balances conservation and modern functionality, contributing to the renewal of Riga’s urban fabric.

Tina Gregorič is a Slovenian architect and educator internationally recognized for her research-based and context-sensitive approach. She graduated with honours from the University of Ljubljana and the Architectural Association in London. In 2003, she co-founded Dekleva Gregorič Architects (@dekleva.gregoric.architects), focusing on human-scale projects, from houses and apartments to cultural and educational buildings, exploring new ways of living and building through innovative use of materials and space. Since 2014 she has been a full professor at TU Wien.

Nikolaus Hirsch (1964) is an architect, curator, and educator based in Brussels, where he is Artistic Director of CIVA. Former Rector of Städelschule and Director of Portikus in Frankfurt, he has taught internationally and co-founded e-flux architecture. His work spans buildings, exhibitions, and publications, exploring critical approaches to spatial practice and contemporary culture.

Rosa Rull Bertrán (1964) is a Catalan architect and co-founder of BAILORULL + ADD Arquitectura, established in Barcelona in 1990. She is known for her research-driven approach that deeply studies each site’s history and dynamics. Graduated from ETSAB, she combines scientific analysis with traditional craftsmanship to create sustainable, evolving architecture. Her work treats buildings as part of ongoing urban processes, valuing the design process and impermanence. She defines her architecture as “transient,” intimately linked to its time and place.