Set Pieces receives 2025 RAIC Architectural Journalism and Media Award
Toronto, ON - Diamond Schmitt’s book Set Pieces: Architecture for the Performing Arts in Fifteen Fragments, published by Birkhäuser, has received the 2025 RAIC Architectural Journalism and Media Award.
The award recognizes an architect, architectural practice or individual that presents a narrative about architecture which promotes public understanding and awareness of architecture, the role of architects and their impacts on society, and/or the value of design and design excellence.
At its best, architecture, a collection of elements, shapes and intensifies the process and experience of performance. Rather than showcase buildings as whole entities, Set Pieces provides detailed visual explorations of 15 design moments from projects by Diamond Schmitt for some of the world’s most remarkable performing arts buildings – including the David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, New York; La Maison Symphonique in Montreal; Buddy Holly Hall in Lubbock, Texas; National Arts Centre, Ottawa.
Set Pieces investigates the design alchemy that makes performing arts spaces live and breathe, accommodating audiences, communities, as well as the delicate balance of light, sound, and function needed to support performing artists and their visions. The book highlights the intent behind these elements not only as technical architectural features, but also as elements designed to stimulate creativity and give rise to artistic greatness.
“Set Pieces is a beautifully crafted exploration of performance space architecture that bridges technical expertise with human experience. Through clear language and compelling imagery, it engages both architects and the public. Particularly relevant post-pandemic, it offers valuable insights into the cultural role of performance spaces while sharing practical design solutions. The thoughtful integration of sensory elements, geometry, and materiality creates an illuminating resource,“ commented the 2025 Annual Awards Jury
Contributors:
Don Schmitt, Diamond Schmitt
Matthew Lella, Diamond Schmitt
Gary McCluskie, Diamond Schmitt
Justin Davidson, Music & Architecture Critic for New York Magazine and Curbed
Kate Wagner, Architecture Critic for The Nation & Journalist
Robert Lepage, Playwright, Actor and Director
Mimi Lien, Set Designer
Robert Gerard Pietrusko, Designer & Composer, Associate Professor at University of Pennsylvania
Credits:
Paddy Harrington (Concept, Frontier)
Jennifer Sigler (Concept and Executive Editor)
Brian Sholis (Executive Editor, Frontier)
Javier Zeller (Managing Editor, Diamond Schmitt)
Cristian Ordoñez (Graphic Design for Frontier)
Read more about the 2025 RAIC Architectural Journalism and Media Award winner here.