C. F. Møller Architects' extension to the Natural History Museum in London, the second phase of the Darwin Centre, has been nominated for one of the world's most coveted architectural awards: the Mies van der Rohe award 2009.

In 2007, C. F. Møller Architects was nominated for the prize for two residential developments in Copenhagen.

"It is unusual to be nominated twice in a row, and we are very happy and proud to once again have a project nominated for the Mies van der Rohe award," commented Anna Maria Indrio, a partner in C. F. Møller Architects.

Of the building, Anna Maria Indrio says: "The Darwin Centre is shaped like an enormous silk cocoon, protected by a glass atrium. The cocoon encloses a fantastic treasure, namely evolution itself, and the size and shape of the cocoon reflect the enormous importance of the collection it holds. Such an expressive and iconic form should only be used if the relationship between the building and its interpretation is entirely self-evident, as it is here. The new building has completely altered the relationship of the Natural History Museum to its location; what was formerly an inwardly-directed building is now open towards its surroundings, and invites the public inside."

The winner for 2009 will be announced in May.