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Inger and Johannes Exner facts for kids

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Islev Kirke Roedovre Denmark
Inger and Johannes Exner: Islev Church (1969)

Inger Augusta Exner (born August 20, 1926) and Johannes Exner (born March 25, 1926; died May 16, 2015) were a famous Danish husband-and-wife team. They were both talented architects. They met in high school and studied architecture together. They graduated in 1954 and got married in 1952.

Meet Inger and Johannes Exner: Architect Duo

Inger and Johannes Exner were a very special Danish couple. They worked together as architects for many years. They became known for their unique designs. They also became famous for fixing old, important buildings.

Their Journey in Architecture

Inger and Johannes first met when they were in high school. They both loved architecture. So, they decided to study it together. They went to the Danish Academy, a famous art school. They finished their studies in 1954. Two years before that, in 1952, they got married.

Building and Restoring: Their Work

In 1958, Inger and Johannes started their own architecture company. They became experts in two main areas. First, they designed and built many new churches. Second, they worked on restoring old buildings. This means they carefully repaired and brought old buildings back to life.

Some of the churches they designed include:

  • Præstebro Church in Herlev (built 1966–1969)
  • Nørrelandskirke in Holstebro (built 1967–1969)
  • Islev Church in Rødovre (built 1968–1969)
  • Gug Church in Aalborg (built 1973)
  • Sædden Church in Esbjerg (built 1978)

They also did amazing restoration work. They helped fix famous places like:

  • Copenhagen's Rundetårn (Round Tower) and Trinity Church (1981–1983)
  • The castle of Koldinghus (1972–1992)

Their work on Koldinghus castle was so good that they won an award. It was the Europa Nostra award in 1994. In 2001, they finished a new part for the Ter Apel Monastery in the Netherlands.

Awards and Recognition

Inger and Johannes Exner received many important awards for their work. These awards showed how much their talent was appreciated.

  • In 1983, they won the Eckersberg Medal.
  • In 1991, they received the Nykredit Architecture Prize.
  • In 1992, they were given the C. F. Hansen Medal.

Also in 1992, they became Honorary Members of the American Institute of Architects (Hon. FAIA). This is a special title given to architects who have made a big impact.

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