"We are very grateful for this acknowledgement and for the initiative included in the legacy of late Abe Bonnema (2001). The jury considers it as a big merit that Cruz y Ortiz has managed to survive as captains of this tempestuous boat during the last 12 years. Important criteria for the judgement are its meticulous relation between design and execution, the care for the details and the control of craftsmanship: all aspects that were dear to Abe Bonnema."
Arup was involved as one of the advisors of the project, contributing substantially to the realisation of the new Rijksmuseum, designing the lighting concept, the building services and building physics.
“Apart from Cruz and Ortiz Architects, the jury would like to honour the special contribution of all involved advisors. The result is a project that is exemplary in applying innovative concepts and aspects. The new Rijksmuseum has set a new standard for the Dutch architecture.” — Ed Nijpels, Chairman of the ir. Abe Bonnema Foundation.
The Abe Bonnema Architecture Award is granted biannually to an architect that designed a building of 'remarkable high quality architecture'. From a total of 49 entries, five projects were shortlisted, with the Rijksmuseum winning the award. The jury commented that the team delivered a world class museum.
