Architect Edward (Ted) Cullinan one of the most distinguished British architects of the 21st century has won the RIBA gold medal for 2008. The RIBA gold medal is one of the most prestigious architectural awards, the nominee approved personally by Her Majesty the Queen, and is given to a person or group of people who have had a significant influence on international architecture.
The honour recognises the impact Cullinan has made on architecture through his highly personal and inventive buildings. A renowned draughtsman, he is best known for his imaginative houses, university buildings, and visitor centres. Shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling Prize in 2002, the Gridshell at the Weald and Downland Museum in West Sussex is one of Cullinan’s most recognised works, an essay in sustainable construction, and regarded as one of the finest and most original British buildings in recent years. This year’s Royal Gold Medal also recognises the contribution Cullinan has made to the teaching of architecture through his professorships at the universities of Nottingham, The Bartlett, Sheffield, and Edinburgh.
