RIBA news events 2026, Architecture Gallery London, UK buildings, British architects practices
Royal Institute of British Architects exhibition, talks & events in London, England, UK future trends.
post updated 21 January 2026
21 January 2026
New Design Guidance To Raise The Bar For New-build Development
• Government publishes updated new build design guidance to focus on design quality, creating places of lasting value, that are climate change resilient
• Councils and developers given clear rulebook to build better designed, safer and healthier neighbourhoods that complement local areas
• Part of the biggest planning rewrite in a decade to speed up local planning decisions and build 1.5 million quality homes
Updated national design guidance published today, sets a clear benchmark for well-designed neighbourhoods, ensuring new developments are well-connected to local shops and services.
Aimed at shaping how the next generation of neighbourhoods are built, the guidance sets out how new homes should reflect modern life – from space to work from home to flexible layouts that adapt as families grow and cater for every stage of life.
Working together, councils and developers will use the guidance to make visible improvements for residents, including calmer streets with less traffic to improved green spaces. New builds will be expected to address and adapt to climate change, with minimum standards for adequate shade and minimising potential flood risk.
Now in its second iteration, the guidance encourages all parties to support local jobs and amenities by design – ensuring local shops and services like GP surgeries are within walking distance.
As part of its approach to support smaller developers bringing forward much need homes and to set realistic expectations on larger developments, the government is intending to create model design codes – set to be launched later this year – with clear rules to create successful places.
Local authorities will set the vision for their areas through local plans, ensuring clear design expectations using masterplans, local design codes and guides. Part of the biggest planning rewrite in over a decade, the new design guidance aims to provide clarity early in the process to avoid costly delays to schemes and ramp up housebuilding and help deliver 1.5 million high-quality homes this Parliament.
Today’s guidance supports the government’s revamp of the National Planning Policy Framework, currently out for consultation. Putting people at the centre of planning, the principles clearly set out new homes must be climate resilient and boost nature recovery.
Building on wider planning reforms, the guidance forms part of the new rules-based system where developers meeting clear standards can move quickly from plans on paper to spades in the ground.
The seven features of well-designed places are:
• Liveability – Homes close to amenities, designed for all stages of life, with communal and private space.
• Climate – Buildings that cope with climate change, green spaces to reduce overheating, solar panels, green and brown roofs, and EV charging stations.
• Nature – Hedgehog highways, swift bricks, green spaces and parks, and protection for existing natural features.
• Movement – Safe streets, accessible public transport, and good parking without car dominated design.
• Built Form – Rooms sized to promote health and wellbeing, with good storage, minimising outside noise, privacy and security, sunlight, and good ventilation.
• Public Space – well-located spaces that encourage social interaction, with natural surveillance from windows and balconies.
• Identity – Character shaped by local history, culture, and landscape, reflected in building types, and architectural details.
Part of its drive to support everyone to own their own home, the design guidance also looks to open the benefits of modern construction standards to everyone. With new build homes able to lower energy bills with better insulation, modern heating systems, and features like solar panels built in as standard.
The guidance will simplify and speed up planning decisions as it consolidates four existing documents into one, making it simpler for councils, developers, and communities to understand what good design looks like. As part of this, local authorities are encouraged to set a clear vision and work with developers from the start – helping to speed up planning decisions and rubberstamp good, quality homes faster.
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RIBA News Events 2025
24 October 2025
RIBA Future Trends September 2025 News
The RIBA just published our latest report on architecture business and employment trends, RIBA Future Trends September 2025.
The September report shows that while confidence across the profession has eased, the picture is more nuanced than the headline figure suggests. While the RIBA Future Workload Index stands at -2, falling into negative territory for the first time since January, the findings highlight a clear divide by practice size.
Smaller practices – who often rely on lower-budget domestic projects – are feeling the pressure of weaker demand, with their Workload Index falling to -8. But by contrast, medium and large practices, which deliver the majority of the profession’s revenue, remain strongly optimistic, with a combined Workload Index of +39, the highest in a year.
By sector, the Commercial sector remains the most resilient, while the outlook for Private Housing continues to deteriorate in line with smaller practice struggles.
Positively, staffing expectations remain steady. Both the Permanent (+2) and Temporary (+5) Staffing Indices are positive, suggesting that despite softer short-term workload forecasts, practices continue to plan for stability and future growth. You can find a summary on the page linked above.
Adrian Malleson, RIBA Head of Economic Research and Analysis, said:
“September’s Future Trends data shows a profession with a more cautious outlook. The overall workload index has fallen into negative territory for the first time since January, standing at -2. Smaller practices, particularly those reliant on private housing work, are feeling the pressure of a subdued market and continued economic uncertainty. In contrast, medium and large practices remain confident, with a combined workload balance of +39 – the highest recorded this year.
Commentary from practices highlights weak client confidence, high borrowing costs, and planning delays as persistent challenges. However, staffing levels remain stable, suggesting underlying confidence in longer-term prospects.”
At RIBA, we are aware that smaller and emerging practices are navigating particularly difficult conditions. Our Small and Emerging Practices network provides targeted support, resources, and peer connections to help practices build resilience, share expertise, and identify opportunities for growth. Over the coming months, the network will focus on improving access to business support, practical guidance on procurement and regulation, and shared learning around sustainable practice models.
The Royal Institute of British Architects will also shortly publish findings from their annual Business Benchmarking survey – a detailed overview of the profession’s financial and operational performance. This data will provide additional insight into how practices of all sizes are responding to current market conditions, and where opportunities for future growth may lie.
Read the full RIBA Future Trends September 2025 report.
18 September 2025
RIBA Future Trends August 2025
The August report shows that while architects remain broadly positive about future workloads, confidence has weakened. The RIBA Future Workload Index fell to +2, down from +9 in July. Current workloads are on average 13% lower than a year ago.
This softer outlook is driven largely by the sharp decline in the private housing sector, which has moved firmly into negative territory, and by a downturn in sentiment among small practices. In contrast, medium and large practices remain firmly optimistic, with the Commercial sector proving resilient.
Staffing expectations remain positive overall, with both permanent and temporary indices still in positive territory, though the balance has weakened compared with July.
Adrian Malleson, RIBA Head of Economic Research and Analysis, said:
“The August RIBA Future Workload Index shows a profession becoming more measured in its outlook, with the headline figure falling to +2, down from +9 in July. While this still indicates overall growth expectations, the fall reflects growing concern, particularly for the private housing sector, and among smaller practices.
The sector-specific data is the most concerning. While the commercial sector, a significant source of revenue for medium to large practices, is proving resilient, the private housing sector, the largest revenue source for smaller practices, has shown a sharp decline. The public and community sectors have also slipped into negative territory.
Commentary this month is downbeat, with practices reporting a slowdown in project activity and enquiries. Downward pressure is coming from rising costs, weak client confidence, a stagnant economy, and regulatory burdens, especially the Building Safety Act. Planning delays remain a major barrier.
Nevertheless, some practices are cautiously optimistic, expecting workloads to improve after the summer. Recruiting to meet demand remains a challenge for some.”
9 September 2025
RIBA responds to new Ministerial appointments
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has responded to the Prime Minister’s first major Cabinet reshuffle which saw Steve Reed becoming Secretary of State at Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Other cabinet appointees include Peter Kyle as Secretary of State for Business and Trade and Pat McFadden as Secretary of State for Work and Pensions.
RIBA President, Chris Williamson said:
“The Government has made bold commitments to drive economic growth and improve living standards – ones we continue to work with new Ministers to achieve. From delivering 1.5 million homes to exporting UK services around the world, architecture is integral in helping to deliver its ambitions.
To ensure that the new homes we urgently need are high-quality, we must embed good design in the planning system. The Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which is currently going through Parliament, should require a design vision as part of Spatial Development Strategies to guarantee quality from the outset. To support this, planning departments must receive additional resource to address gaps in skills and capacity.
We must continue to put safety at the heart of our buildings and drive forward our net zero goals. Ambitious requirements to reduce both operational and embodied carbon emissions and a National Retrofit Strategy should be at the top of the Government’s agenda.
None of this will be possible without a pipeline of talent. Recent changes to Level 7 apprenticeship funding undermines the sector’s ability to deliver on the Government’s plan for growth.
UK architecture is world-renowned, and we are working to export and promote exemplary design and buildings across the globe – all while supporting the Government to deliver a better built environment throughout the country. We look forward to continuing this work in the coming months.”
5 September 2025
New RIBA President takes office
“Architects don’t shy away from challenges or change; we rise to meet them.”
photo : Morley von Sternberg
Chris Williamson, the new President of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), has used his first day in office (1 September) to urge architects to lead from the front in tackling the “myriad challenges” facing the profession.
In a blog published today, Williamson singled out climate change, rapid developments in technology, and mounting financial pressures as key threats to architecture. He said that while “these challenges may threaten our profession, they also present us with great opportunities to lead from the front.”
Williamson said, “Our profession, and society more widely, face a myriad of challenges that can sometimes feel existential in nature, from the climate emergency to daunting changes in technology and mounting financial pressures.”
He pledged to lead on these issues, proposing solutions that range from lifelong learning modules that allow architects to constantly improve and grow by curating their own career paths, to ensuring that we have the right skills and expertise to influence government. We can “turn these challenges into opportunities” and “shape a more inclusive, future-facing society that works for all of us” he said.
Williamson also noted the urgent need to make architecture more accessible, from attracting students from diverse backgrounds, to supporting non-practicing architects and alternative career routes.
photograph : Morley von Sternberg
Speaking today, RIBA President Chris Williamson said:
“I take up this role at a unique moment. The challenges we face, from climate change to rapid advancements in technology, and the scope of the tasks ahead, are not something I take lightly. It is important however, to meet them head on.
As a profession, we have the potential to turn these challenges into opportunities, to design more sustainably, to welcome and support our next generation of architects, and to shape a more inclusive, future-facing profession that works for the benefit of all of us. Architects don’t shy away from challenges and change; we rise to meet them.
Architecture, and the built environment shape every aspect of our daily lives. These are the spaces in which we live and work, spaces that influence everything from our health and wellbeing to the strength of our communities. For our public realm to thrive, our profession must thrive, and that starts with supporting our future architects.
We urgently need to make architecture more accessible, from attracting students from diverse backgrounds, to supporting non-practicing architects and alternative career routes. We are only as strong as the quality of the new, young architects joining the profession.”
Chris Williamson’s term as RIBA President is from 1 September 2025 to 31 August 2027. He takes over the role from Muyiwa Oki.
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Chris Williamson Biography:
Chris is a chartered architect, holding an MSc in Project Management and believes strongly that the art of architecture requires excellent business skills in order to be realised. Chris also gained an MA in Urban Design in 1995 and is a member of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
Chris has held several roles within RIBA. In 1999-2001 he was Chair of the Architecture Centre and then the Ambassador for Business Skills 2015-2017. More recently he was recently Vice President International, responsible for setting a strategy to grow into a global membership institution and to encourage more UK architects to seek work globally.
29 August 2025
RIBA puts high-quality design on Parliament’s agenda
As the Planning and Infrastructure Bill makes its way through Parliament, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has secured an amendment to ensure design quality is at the heart of new development.
The Planning and Infrastructure Bill aims to speed up and streamline the delivery of new homes and critical infrastructure through reforms to the planning system and a number of legislative changes, including a focus on strategic planning implemented through Spatial Development Strategies (SDSs).
These will guide local plans, identify key infrastructure requirements and strategic locations for development. RIBA’s amendment to the Bill would require SDSs to include a design vision, which is a clear articulation of what an area or project should be like in the future, developed with the local community and stakeholders.
The inclusion of a design vision in SDSs is vital for high-quality design to be prioritised in the strategic planning process, and would ensure new development meets the practical needs of residents and communities, while embedding the principles of safety, sustainability and accessibility.
The amendment has been tabled by the Liberal Democrat Lords Housing Spokesperson Baroness Thornhill MBE, who RIBA is working closely with to amplify its call to prioritise high-quality development. It will be debated when Parliament returns from summer recess.
RIBA has also secured support for the amendment from the Design Council, the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) and NLA, and support from Peers across the political spectrum.
RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki said:
“We are vocal advocates of a strategic approach to planning policy as a crucial way to ensure sustainable growth while meeting housing and infrastructure needs. However, high-quality design must be prioritised in new development from the outset.
Good design can create a wide range of improvements – from health and wellbeing to productivity. But without the requirement for a design vision in the Bill, there is no guarantee that this will be delivered.
We are grateful to Baroness Thornhill for tabling our amendment and look forward to working with parliamentarians and our partners across the sector to embed design quality in legislation.”
Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) President, Eddie Weir, said:
“High-quality design is fundamental to creating places that people love, and which meet our current and future needs, as well as those of the planet.
Integrating design visions within Spatial Development Strategies gives communities the opportunity to shape local development at an early stage, building support for new homes, amenities, and infrastructure.
As design professionals, Chartered Architectural Technologists regularly work alongside Architects, and CIAT is pleased to support RIBA in advocating for this important amendment.”
Design Council Director of Place and Infrastructure, Edward Hobson said:
“Good design is central to building the homes and infrastructure we need and ensuring it is fit for purpose, long-lasting and regenerates our environment. Creating a clear vision for a place’s future is fundamental to delivering innovative, sustainable places and resilient communities.
We fully support Baroness Thornhill’s amendment and look forward to working with RIBA and parliamentarians to place quality at the heart of the government’s housebuilding and infrastructure programmes.”
NLA Chief Executive, Nick McKeogh said:
“We welcome Baroness Thornhill’s amendment to the Planning & Infrastructure Bill. The NLA has worked closely with the GLA and successive London Mayors to put design vision at the heart of the London Plan, and we believe that there is much for the government to build upon from that work.”
Previously on e-architect:
31 July 2025
2025 Neave Brown Award for Housing Shortlist
17 July 2025
RIBA Future Trends June 2025
Find a summary on the page linked above.
Adrian Malleson, RIBA Head of Economic Research and Analysis, said:
“June sees the profession remain optimistic about future workloads, but optimism is softening somewhat compared with the uptick in outlook seen in May. Current workloads remain below what they were twelve months ago.
Nevertheless, all practice sizes, regions and sectors remain optimistic about future work.
The ongoing improvement in outlook for permanent staff recruitment suggests a benign longer-term outlook, even in a challenging economic background.
This month’s commentary gives a mixed picture.
Some practices describe an improving market, with increased enquiries and commissions, particularly for smaller projects, high-end residential, office fit-outs, and within the education sector.
A number of practices note that recruiting qualified staff is becoming increasingly challenging, especially where specialist skills, such as Passivhaus design, are required.
Other practices continue to describe a challenging market with concerns about the strength of the economy. Upward pressures on business and project costs are reported to continue. Practices express concern that increased regulatory requirements are increasing project costs and delaying project progress. Low fees remain a significant concern for many.”
10 July 2025
Exploring and shaping tomorrow: Future Business of Architecture
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has launched an evidence-based, research programme exploring the future business of architecture.
- The research programme will be complemented by four RIBA Academy CPD webinars, exploring what it means to be future ready as an individual and a practice
- It will culminate in a global interactive online conference on 8 October 2025.
Through this initiative, RIBA recognises the testing business environment the design and construction industry is currently navigating. The 2020s has been a period of uncertainty with global economic and political turbulence. For many architectural practices, it is manifesting in a downward pressure on fees combined with upward drivers on cost, making turning a profit a challenge.
Ensuring the long-term sustainability of architectural practice requires looking beyond the immediate noise and disruption of the current turmoil. By focusing on the decade to come, the Future Business of Architecture programme aims to provide the long view sharpened by the lenses of data analysis and quantitative and qualitative research. The programme will provide architects with actionable insights into opportunities and challenges.
Rooted in the RIBA strategy to ‘make the future a better place’, the research project examines how architects can be business-viable agents of change, even in a time of unprecedented technological change and ongoing economic uncertainty.
Future Business of Architecture is the second phase of the horizon-scanning programme, RIBA Horizons 2034. It draws on evidence from five sources to develop ‘future scenarios’ to help practices thrive in the next ten years.
The five sources are:
- a business-focussed evaluation of RIBA Horizons 2034,
As practices face increasingly unpredictable market conditions, the Future Business of Architecture will also help inform the debate about how to be resilient today and future-ready tomorrow. It will explore the potential of AI and other technologies to help or hinder design and business efficiencies.
RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki said:
“It’s an exciting time for our profession but there are significant challenges and a degree of uncertainty for individuals and practices. What is certain is the need to be as well informed as possible about the current and future direction of travel for architecture so that we can adapt and thrive.
As our latest AI report has demonstrated, architects are more willing and curious than ever to embrace the new to enhance their creativity and productivity, so I have no doubt that they will be equally enthusiastic about this programme and its potential to spark debate and share knowledge.”
Previously on e-architect:
7 July 2025
RIBA welcomes £39bn Social and Affordable Homes Programme
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) responds to the £39bn commitment to social and affordable housing, announced on 2 July, in the Government’s Spending Review and the confirmation that 60% of homes delivered will be for social rent.
RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki said:
“We welcome the initial details of the Government’s £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes programme.
The Government’s projected total of 180,000 social homes over the coming decade is certainly a step in the right direction, and it is vital that this commitment to social housing delivery is maintained throughout the lifetime of the programme.
These measures still fall short of the estimated 90,000 social homes we should be building every year to meet need.
This means we must also encourage long-term thinking about how we will finance and supply enough social housing. There are no easy answers, but innovative new delivery models, such as those laid out in our Foundations for the Future report should be a viable and sustainable part of the solution.
The new Council Housebuilding Skills and Capacity Programme is another positive step towards this. But the initial £12 million set aside to fund it is unlikely to mitigate the existing capacity and skills gaps, which must be filled to enable local authorities to deliver.
Focus on delivery must not come at the expense of prioritising the quality of both existing and new housing stock. As such, we are pleased to see that the Government is updating and modernising the Decent Homes Standard.
These announcements are encouraging, and we look forward to the publication of the long-term housing strategy to further outline the Government’s plan to boost the delivery of high-quality, affordable and sustainable housing across the country.”
23 June 2025
RIBA reacts to Government’s Industrial Strategy
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has commented on the Government’s Industrial Strategy which has been announced today (23rd of June).
The long-awaited strategy to increase the UK’s industrial output includes plans for the Professional and Business sector and the Creative Industries sector, with the aim of building a new partnership in which the Government provides the long-term strategic certainty that enables businesses to invest and grow.
RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki said:
“With world-class buildings designed by UK architects on every continent, our architecture is celebrated globally. It is encouraging that the Industrial Strategy acknowledges this.
Architecture straddles both the professional and business services sector, and the creative industry sector – two key areas prioritised in the Strategy – so has a unique part to play in helping to deliver the Government’s growth plans.
Positively, many of our recommendations have been included in the Strategy. From improving the planning system to securing mutual recognition of professional qualifications, change is needed if we are to achieve growth.
However, the decision to defund Level 7 apprenticeships for people over 21, when the Government is seeking to increase skills and build a pipeline of homegrown talent, is a backwards step for the profession.
It’s not too late to rethink the decision around Level 7 and we urge the Government to undertake a full impact assessment of the consequences of defunding.”
16 June 2025
RIBA Future Trends May 2025 News
Adrian Malleson, RIBA Head of Economic Research and Analysis, said:
“With across-the-board optimism, May’s Future Trends data shows the profession is more optimistic about future work than it has been for some time, with overall expectations for growth across all regions, sectors, and practice sizes. Anticipated increases in both permanent and temporary staffing levels underscore this optimism.
While the outlook for the commercial and residential sectors has again improved, the public sector stands out this month. With a balance figure of +4, this is the first time in over three years that the sector has been positive. This may reflect hopes for renewed investment in the public estate.
While all practice sizes are positive, small practices, those with 10 or fewer employees, remain the most cautious, with almost a quarter expecting their workloads to decline.
Commentary this month describes areas where practices see workloads increasing, notably overseas work, the community sector, residential work with private developers, and small-scale domestic extensions.
Nevertheless, despite this overall optimism, the profession continues to face significant challenges. The increase in employer National Insurance has added to practice costs, and delays in the planning process continue to frustrate project progress. Practices are also contending with process complexity for higher-risk building, delays in client payment, fee undercutting, and continuing economic uncertainty.”
16 June 2025
RIBA Sandys Trust Donation News
RIBA announces £1 million donation from the Sandys Trust to support architecture students
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced a remarkable donation of £1 million from the Sandys Trust to establish an endowment to support architectural education. The endowment will provide Sandys Bursaries to students in financial need who are undertaking postgraduate study.
The Sandys Trust shares RIBA’s vision of making architecture inclusive and accessible to all, and this donation will aim to ensure students from low income and disadvantaged backgrounds can pursue their studies.
The new Sandys Bursaries will be awarded through the RIBA Part 2 Bursaries scheme which provides long-term financial support to architecture students who demonstrate talent, commitment to their studies and financial need. These bursaries have an incredibly positive impact on students’ lives.
Supporting education is a key objective of The Sandys Trust which was established with funds from the estate of the late Lord and Lady Sandys.
Caroline Clarke (née Mauduit), trustee of the Sandys Trust, said:
“We are delighted to make this grant to RIBA, in honour of my aunt and uncle, to support talented students who might otherwise struggle to find funds. As an architect myself, I can well remember the long hours of study and appreciate the financial pressures facing students today. Through these Sandys bursaries, we hope to foster excellence, imagination and vision in architecture.”
RIBA Chair of Trustees, Jack Pringle said:
“As we embark on our House of Architecture project, this is an extraordinary investment in our blueprint for the future of architecture, and we are enormously grateful to the trustees of the Sandys Trust for this transformational donation. It will change the lives of so many students for generations to come and will make a major contribution towards RIBA’s goal of ensuring access to architecture is more open to a wider cohort of future architects.”
22 May 2025
RIBA South Awards 2025 winners news
16 May 2025
2025 RIBA Southeast Award Winners
16 May 2025
2025 RIBA East Midlands Award Winners
15 May 2025
RIBA voices concerns that UK Government measures to lower legal immigration may affect pipeline of available talent in sector.
RIBA has responded to the government’s White Paper on reducing immigration which was published 12 May.
RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki said:
“The government’s decision to reduce the number of international workers and students comes at a time when they have ambitious plans to drive growth, including delivering 1.5 million new homes.
Architects are vital to achieving this, but the sector has a significant skills shortage. We need an immigration system that helps plug these gaps.
“We welcome the desire to nurture homegrown talent, and we continue to champion new and accessible routes into the profession, such as apprenticeships. But the potential of defunding Level 7 apprenticeships puts this at risk.
“We continue to work with the Government to ensure a pipeline of talent in the architecture sector and drive growth across the country.”
14 May 2025
2025 RIBA London awards winners, buildings + architects
13 May 2025
RIBA Bookshop at 66 Portland Place News
photo © James Loveday
RIBA Bookshop London 66 Portland Place
10 May 2025
RIBA South West & Wessex Awards 2025 winners
9 May 2025
RIBA Yorkshire Award winners 2025 Winners
post updated 2 May 2025
2025 RIBA West Midlands Awards Winners
1 May 2025
SANAA receives King’s Royal Gold Medal for Architecture
RIBA Gold Medal for Architecture 2025 Winner
24 April 2025
RIBA Future Trends March 2025 News
The Royal Institute of British Architects just published their latest report on architecture business and employment trends, RIBA Future Trends March 2025. The report shows that practices are largely optimistic about future workloads, and the sectoral outlook is improving particularly in the housing and commercial sectors. However, British architectural practices are braced for rising costs expected in April. March’s data also precedes the global market turmoil caused by the introduction of trade tariffs by the US President.
Adrian Malleson, RIBA Head of Economic Research and Analysis, said:
“March’s data is, on the face of it, encouraging. Practices in all regions are optimistic about future workloads. The sectoral outlook is improving, with increasing optimism for the Housing and Commercial sectors, and reducing pessimism in the Community sector.
The announced increase in government capital spending, the expectation of increased housing construction, and the intended reform of the planning system may improve future workloads.
The +7 Workload Index of March 2025 compares well with the zero figure of March 2024.
After a challenging 2024, it looks as if the first quarter of 2025 sees a corner turned, with an increasingly positive outlook for the coming three months.
However, global uncertainty and the market turmoil created by the introduction of trade tariffs cast a shadow over March’s optimism.
Heightened uncertainty is likely to reduce client willingness to commission new projects. The RIBA will continue to monitor developments closely.
Commentary received from practices in March gives a mixed picture. Some architectural practices describe a flat or suppressed market, with the ongoing challenges of planning delays and fee pressure. Architects practices have also highlighted the increased costs they, contractors, and clients will face in April.
Other practices offer a more upbeat assessment of the current market, describing areas of growth in the residential market, increased enquiries, and rising hope for 2025.”
24 April 2025
RIBA and The King’s Foundation join forces to champion retrofit
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and The King’s Foundation today announced the launch of a new initiative to champion retrofit, promote the reuse of existing buildings, and spotlight the local skills and expertise needed to make it happen.
Building on the success of a community-reuse pilot event, hosted jointly by RIBA and The King’s Foundation in Fleetwood Lancashire, the new collaboration will feature two further regional events taking place this year. These events will bring thought leaders together to spark dialogue, share best practice and support cross-sector action on reuse in the built environment at a local level.
Retrofit – the upgrading of existing buildings to improve their energy efficiency, longevity, and flexibility – has been a core pillar of Muyiwa Oki’s RIBA presidency and aligns closely with The King’s Foundation’s work to promote harmony between the built and natural environments. The Foundation has worked on the repurposing of many existing buildings including Dumfries House in Ayrshire, Fleetwood Hospital in Lancashire, and Drapers Hall in Coventry.
The first event, “Reimagining resources – Buildings, crafts and materials ” will be held on 3 July at The Glove Factory Studios, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire. The second event, planned for September 2025, will explore the importance of retrofit in creating healthy indoor environments.
Both events will feature expert panel discussions, interactive workshops and demonstrations, offering insights into how we can reuse existing buildings and materials to create a more sustainable built environment.
RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki, said:
“We know that around 80% of the buildings that will be in use in 2050 already exist. If we’re serious about cutting carbon emissions, preserving heritage, and creating spaces that really serve our communities, we must continue to push retrofit up the national agenda.
I’m excited to continue our collaboration with The King’s Foundation, building on our successful pilot in Fleetwood to deliver two dynamic events that will bring together the key players from across our built environment. These events will provide spaces for conversations, collaborations and demonstrations of the local skills and expertise needed to make retrofit a success.”
Architect and Associate Director at The King’s Foundation, Sarah Robinson, said: “Repurposing existing buildings is vital not only because of their carbon value but because of their inherent social value as the backdrop to our daily lives and the glue of existing communities. Finding new uses for these buildings can create exciting challenges for the next generation of architects. At The King’s Foundation, we champion the sustainable regeneration of buildings, so we are excited to be collaborating with RIBA to establish a forum for engaging conversations.”
17 April 2025
RIBA initial reaction to ARB’s Independent Commission on professional practical experience (PPE)
• The ARB’s independent Commission on professional practical experience (PPE) in architecture has published the results of its year-long investigation into the challenges faced by future architects in seeking suitable work experience.
• RIBA gives its initial reaction to the insights and re-states the importance of more flexible modes of study and routes into architecture to secure and maintain a skilled workforce to deliver desperately needed high quality housing.
Chair of RIBA Board of Trustees, Jack Pringle said:
“Training and retaining highly skilled architects from all walks of life is vital to deliver the quality homes we so desperately need and address societal challenges such as achieving net zero.
But to ensure a brilliant and diverse pipeline of talent into the profession we need fresh thinking and new approaches, starting with modes of study, which should be more flexible and, in some cases, shorter.
We are particularly keen to see the development of a five-year admission to registration route emerging as a viable educational model, and will work with schools and the ARB to support this development.
I’m encouraged by some of the findings from the ARB’s PPE Commission, not just because they reflect many of our own insights, which we are already addressing, but also because some of the issues that have emerged will give us an opportunity to reflect on what more can be done.
However, education reform, particularly around practical experience, has been far, far too slow in coming, and I hope that the ARB Board will now act quickly in response to the Commission’s recommendations. In particular, recommendations that improve accessibility to the profession by removing unnecessary barriers to entry and requiring PPE to be outcome rather than time based, should be strongly encouraged.
Some of the recommendations have significant implications for learning providers, so we are ready to engage with ARB, students and practices to help ensure that all routes into learning and professional practice work for all.”
11 March 2025
RIBA welcomes new Planning and Infrastructure Bill
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has welcomed the sweeping changes to the planning system which the Government has outlined today (11 March 2025) in its Planning and Infrastructure Bill, in order to deliver 1.5million homes by 2030.
The Bill, which was announced by the Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing, Rt Hon. Angela Rayner MP, proposes measures aiming to speed up planning decisions and deliver necessary development.
RIBA’s President, Muyiwa Oki said:
“This is a welcome shot in the arm for the construction industry. To ensure the much needed high quality housing and infrastructure, urgent action is required.
However, to deliver the seismic changes proposed, local planning departments will need to be adequately resourced and supported with the right people, skills and design expertise they need. We look forward to examining the Bill and working with the Government to ensure we create well-designed homes and places that meet the needs for communities to thrive.
The Bill signifies a step in the right direction to speeding up the planning system. What’s not in question is the desperate need to build quality homes and vibrant places up and down the country.”
20 February 2025
RIBA Future Trends January 2025
The Royal Institute of British Architects have just published their latest report on architecture business and employment trends, RIBA Future Trends January 2025. The report shows that over the next three months, architects expect falling workloads, although the outlook is slowly improving. Staffing levels are expected to fall as practices are increasingly cautious about recruitment, but staff numbers are reported to remain roughly the same as last year.
Adrian Malleson, RIBA Head of Economic Research and Analysis, said:
“In the context of an under-performing economy and global uncertainty, the architects’ market remains challenging. The profession remains pessimistic about future work. For the third consecutive month, the RIBA Future Workload Index is negative, indicating that practices continue to anticipate workloads falling in the near term.
Most sectors and regions anticipate falling workloads. Expectations for future staffing levels are also negative, with practices reporting that coming changes in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) are dampening recruitment plans. Nevertheless, this month’s report does provide some cause for optimism. The Workload Index has risen for the second successive month, workloads are expected to grow in the capital, the outlook for the housing sector is no longer negative, and staffing levels held steady through a difficult 2024.
Commentary received from practices in January reflects a weak architectural market, with continued reports of intense fee competition, a lack of new enquiries, and insufficient work in the pipeline. The slow progress of planning applications still restricts project progress. Architecture practices report planned increases in NICs making future recruitment less likely and lessening the scope for staff pay rises. Some are considering redundancies.
Practices also describe policy and regulation changes negatively affecting workloads, including changes to the Building Regulations, the Listed Places of Worship VAT rebate Grant Scheme, and High-Risk Building procedures. Nevertheless, some practices describe thriving businesses, with some noting strong demand for office projects, ongoing work from established clients, growing opportunities overseas, and an anticipation of an improving market this year.”
Previously on e-architect:
13 February 2025
RIBA responds to plans for new towns and affordable homes
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has today, Thursday 13 February 2025, reacted to the Government’s plans to build a new generation of new towns and invest £350 million in the supply of affordable and social housing, both announced this week.
A funding top-up promises to deliver 2,800 affordable homes, with half designated for social rent, plus 250 more council homes.
It was also announced that over 100 sites in England have come forward to be considered for the development of new towns, and the New Towns Taskforce has set out principles for new towns to deliver affordable housing, infrastructure and access to green spaces.
RIBA President Muyiwa Oki said:
“The Government has made no bones about its ambition to address the housing crisis, and this week’s announcements put positive intentions into action.
We welcome the focus on ensuring new towns are well-designed and provide communities with both affordable housing and essential infrastructure and amenities.
Delivering new homes is crucial to the Government’s growth agenda. While we’re pleased to see funding committed to this, notably for affordable housing and unlocking brownfield and council-owned sites, it will take innovative solutions to meet the scale of need.
We outlined one way to deliver a pipeline of new social housing in our Foundations for the Future report. Our model could reduce the cost of delivering social housing by using public land to build mixed-tenure developments, and reinvesting profits. It’s time to try ideas like this to secure the future of our housing.
We look forward to continuing our work with the Government to achieve this shared goal.”
Read the report: Foundations for the Future: a new delivery model for social housing
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12 February 2025
RIBA condemns ‘ill-advised’ ARB accreditation rule
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has today, Wednesday 12th of February 2025, responded to the Architects Registration Board’s (ARB) decision to keep the wording of its Accreditation Rule 4.2: Degree awarding powers, which it changed from ‘qualification awarding powers’ to ‘degree awarding powers’.
This means ARB will require any learning provider applying for accreditation of a master’s level or equivalent qualification to have degree awarding powers, or a formal agreement with a body with such powers. Learning providers who do not hold degree awarding powers or a formal agreement with a body with such powers will be disqualified from ARB accreditation.
In November 2024, RIBA responded to ARB’s consultation on the rule, warning it posed a barrier to learning providers that supply innovative, flexible routes to become an architect.
RIBA is a provider of architectural education with “qualification awarding powers” through the RIBA Part 3 and RIBA Studio programme (equivalent level to a Part 1 bachelor’s and Part 2 master’s degree).
In response to ARB’s decision, Chair of RIBA Board of Trustees Jack Pringle said:
“Since 1837, our Royal Charter has enshrined our ability to award our own qualifications, granting us the independence to award certificates and diplomas in our own right. Our current RIBA Studio diploma is already recognised as a master’s level equivalent qualification and our external examiners recognise this in their reports. ARB’s decision is a direct assault on the powers granted to us in our charter.
We are pleased to partner with Oxford Brookes University for the delivery of RIBA Studio, and the terms of our arrangement mean that we continue to satisfy Accreditation Rule 4.2. However, ARB’s decision fetters our ability to seek further different routes to qualification, that we may wish to devise in parallel. This is of great concern.
In addition, this ill-advised move could disproportionately affect future alternative learning providers, preventing them from offering new qualifications that could particularly benefit students who face barriers to accessing education due to finances or caring responsibilities.
We continue to advocate for an inclusive architecture education system that works for all.”
Previously on e-architect:
29 January 2025
RIBA responds to the Government’s plan to deliver new homes and national infrastructure
Wednesday 29th January 2025 – The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has responded to the Government’s plans to deliver new homes and national infrastructure. The Chancellor of the Exchequer made the announcement in a speech today in Oxfordshire.
Muyiwa Oki, President of the Royal Institute of British Architects, said:
“The Government’s focus on delivering new homes and national infrastructure is great news – these are essential drivers for economic growth and moves to unlock land near transport hubs can be transformative.
We need vibrant, well-connected neighbourhoods with everything from accessible transport to green space and bustling local centres.
But quality matters when creating new developments. Architecture plays a crucial role in ensuring that new places are sustainable, liveable and fit for the future. We remain ready to work with government to meet this challenge head on.
We look forward to seeing more detail in the forthcoming Planning and Infrastructure Bill.”
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Previously on e-architect in late 2024:
13 December 2024
Architects expect falling workloads and staffing levels
The Royal Institute of British Architects published their latest report on architecture business and employment trends, RIBA Future Trends November 2024. The report shows that over the next three months, architects expect falling workloads and staffing levels.
Adrian Malleson, RIBA Head of Economic Research and Analysis, said:
“This month sees a sharp fall in sentiment about the next three months, with the RIBA Workload Index returning a negative figure for the first time since February. The growing optimism of the second half of the year has now dissipated. A further fall in the Private Housing outlook is particularly concerning for smaller practices. Plans for recruitment reflect the dampened outlook, with practices now more likely to anticipate staff reductions than increases. The recent budget has not brought market confidence.
Commentary received from practices in November describes a tough market. Planning delays continue to hinder project progress, fee competition remains intense, and some clients are paying late for services. These combined challenges weigh down on practice profitability. Some practices report concerns that, following the budget, inflation and interest rates will be higher than was expected. Nevertheless, some practices strike a more positive note, describing an increase in enquiries and expectation of new work secured for 2025, as interest rates further fall.”
13 December 2024
‘A promising path forward’ : RIBA reacts to National Planning Policy Framework shake-up
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has reacted to the revised National Planning Policy Framework, published today, Thursday 12 December 2024.
RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki, said:
“Today’s revisions to the National Planning Policy Framework offer a promising path forward.
Enhanced emphasis on design quality and sustainability reflects a clear understanding of what constitutes good design, paving the way to create places where people truly want to live.
Significant moves to review the use of the greenbelt and define the meaning of grey belt land, while prioritising brownfield development, also signal a willingness to tackle some of the most pressing barriers to large-scale development.
To ensure success, two critical interventions are needed: greater involvement of architects and greater resource for local planning authorities.
Most importantly, this cannot become a solely numbers-driven exercise. In our cities, towns and countryside people deserve high-quality, well-designed homes that meet their needs and stand the test of time.”
RIBA 66 Portland Place in London, England, UK:
Previously on e-architect:
RIBA UK News Archive
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RIBA HQ Refurbishment
RIBA HQ refurbishment, 66 Portland Place
RIBA HQ Building
RIBA HQ at 66 Portland Place
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