The Holy Redeemer Church and Community Centre of Las Chumberas in La Laguna, Spain, designed by Fernando Menis, was awarded the prestigious World Building of the Year at the 2025 World Architecture Festival (WAF).
The festival’s grand finale took place at the Miami Beach Convention Center, Florida, where hundreds of architects from around the world gathered to celebrate architectural excellence.
The Holy Redeemer Church project stood out as a remarkable example of community-driven architecture that revitalises an overlooked urban neighbourhood, serving both social and spiritual needs with its inclusive design that incorporates a church, community centre, and public square.
The World Architecture Festival 2025 marked the 18th edition of what is globally regarded as one of the largest international live-judged architectural events.
Over three days, more than 460 live pitches were presented by finalists across 43 categories, with more than 160 judges evaluating projects in fields including Completed Buildings, Future Projects, and Interiors.
Alongside the World Building of the Year, key awards included World Interior of the Year, Future Project of the Year, and Landscape of the Year.
The festival also presented numerous Special Prizes highlighting achievements in material use, sustainability, lighting, and aesthetic innovation.
The Holy Redeemer Church project, supported by GROHE for the World Building of the Year award, is notable for its role in urban renewal.
Located in the fragmented outskirts of La Laguna, the building has become a landmark that fosters community engagement and revitalises the area’s fabric.
Menis’s design integrates functional, religious and social spaces, emphasising accessibility and inclusivity, which resonated with judges for its thoughtful response to the context and community needs.
Other notable winners at the festival included acclaimed firms such as OMA, Sordo Madaleno, Studio Arthur Casas, and NIKKEN SEKKEI, recognised across various categories.
These winners highlight a broad spectrum of architectural innovation from commercial mixed-use developments and educational facilities to sustainable infrastructure and cultural venues.
The comprehensive judging process and live presentations underscore the festival’s commitment to showcasing pioneering work that pushes the boundaries of architecture globally.
The festival also celebrates Special Prizes, awarded in categories such as the American Beauty Prize, supported by the Royal Fine Art Commission Trust, highlighting buildings that elevate architectural beauty and craftsmanship.
These prizes encourage the exploration of excellence in areas ranging from the use of natural light to innovative materials and sustainability practices, promoting projects that make significant contributions to the built environment and architectural discourse.