Luxembourgish architecture – smart constructions and international reputation Construction in the Grand Duchy – a desire for quality

Smart construction

Both at home and abroad, Luxembourg’s architects are creating harmonious ensembles of traditional elements and contemporary styles that respect their cultural, social and stylistic contexts.

Town planning in the Grand Duchy does indeed have to face numerous challenges. The Grand Duchy and the Greater Region constitute one of the most densely populated regions in Europe. In its capacity as a real economic power, the Grand Duchy constantly needs more workspace and housing.

Style and beauty are combined in the new constructions in innovative solutions that showcase new concepts while preserving traditional characteristics. Open-mindedness, a multiplicity of trends, and local skill based on a knowledge of state-of-the-art technology ensure maintenance of the quality of life in the Grand Duchy, which is one of the best in the world.

The Grand Duchy has taken the lead  in building low-energy housing: since 2017, all new constructions are required to comply with the norms stipulated for achieving classification in Energy Class A, i.e. housing that consumes very little energy. Sustainability has become a major factor in the design and construction of buildings. All new constructions are designed with an eye to their ecological footprint, focusing on characteristics ranging from choice of materials to energy performance.

National and international reputation

There are many exemplary projects to be found throughout the Grand Duchy. Each region has a number of remarkable contemporary projects that combine the existing heritage with new architecture, taking the location into account or experimenting with a new type of facing.

And the Luxembourgish architects also 'export' themselves. Many emblematic buildings in other countries have been designed by firms of architects established in the Grand Duchy. They create magnificently modular buildings in terms of appearance and function that fit in with the various ecosystems and can be adapted to suit the preferences and needs of local residents and clients.

2020 has seen the sixth edition of the  OAI Bauhärepräis. The prize is awarded every four years by the Grand Duchy's  Order of Architects and Consulting Engineers  (OAI) to private or public project owners.  Emphasis is placed on quality projects and constructive, trusting relationships between project owners and designers. Awards are granted in nine categories, covering the work carried out by the five professions covered by the OAI.

The LAA (Luxembourg Architecture Award)  was launched in 1995 by  LUCA (Luxembourg Center for Architecture). It is awarded to works and projects by architects, engineers, interior designers, landscapers and town planners, with the intention of encouraging professional creativity and the excellence of architectural production in the Grand Duchy. Members of the public are invited to contribute and vote for their favourite projects for the award of the  LAA Audience Award – the prize awarded by the public!

Since 2018, the Grand Duchy has exhibited at the  International Architecture Exhibition at the Venice Biennale  in a new environment that is both stimulating and demanding. The  Luxembourg Pavilion has moved from the historic Ca' del Duca venue to take up quarters in a larger space in the Sale d'Armi right in the heart of Venice's Arsenal. With more than 240sq.m., the site makes it possible to envisage larger-scale presentations over the next twenty years, and significantly raise the profile of Luxembourgish architecture.  LUCA (Luxembourg Center for Architecture)  is in charge of organising the Grand Duchy's participation in the Biennale.