As part of our 2025 Review, members of the Dezeen editorial team have selected their favourite buildings of the year. Their choices span new cultural landmarks, residential projects, hotels, skyscrapers, and even an architecture school.
The Grand Ring, Japan, by Sou Fujimoto
selected by Cajsa Carlson, deputy editor
“Standing before The Grand Ring, Sou Fujimoto’s monumental wooden structure, was an awe-inspiring introduction to Expo 2025 Osaka.
“As the world’s largest wooden structure, The Grand Ring encircles the exhibition space, allowing visitors to walk along its perimeter and observe the pavilions from above.
“Its scale is remarkable—with a circumference of two kilometres and a diameter of 700 metres—but what truly captivated me was the intricate wooden craftsmanship. The Grand Ring easily stands out as my favourite architectural project this year.”
Find out more about The Grand Ring ›
Fondation Cartier, France, by Jean Nouvel
selected by Tom Ravenscroft, editor
“Many buildings claim to be kinetic, featuring movable elements, but very few actually deliver on this promise. At the Fondation Cartier, Jean Nouvel has achieved a building that truly transforms—on an extraordinary scale.
“Beneath an unassuming Haussmann-style facade lies a surprisingly dynamic interior. The core gallery features five enormous moving floors, enabling the space to be completely reconfigured as needed.
“It’s a remarkable feat. Each floor measures around 300 square metres—roughly the size of three one-bedroom apartments—and weighs about 200 tons. These floors can be raised or lowered on massive columns, offering eleven possible positions and more than 150,000 potential configurations for the institution.
“This is a significant addition to Paris, serving as a contemporary counterpart to the neighbouring Musée du Louvre.”
Find out more about Fondation Cartier ›
Anthony Timberlands Center, USA, by Grafton Architects
selected by Lizzie Crook, architecture editor
“Having experienced architecture school myself, I was surprised to find that the project I revisited most in 2025 was an educational facility.
“Grafton Architects boldly placed a lively, hands-on workshop at the heart of the building, with a viewing gallery suspended overhead. This design highlights the vibrant, collaborative spirit of studio culture and underscores the significance of making.
“Additionally, the building puts mass timber on display. Its exposed timber frame is described as a new professor for the university, giving the structure a unique and almost endearing character.”
Find out more about Anthony Timberlands Center ›
