Five shortlisted for RIBA learning centre

RIBA has shortlisted five practices to design a new learning centre on the fourth floor of its Portland Place headquarters in central London.

The institute launched a competition for the project in June, requesting proposals for the creation of a new study room, terrace and display area in existing space at its grade II* listed home.

Selected to work up their proposals for the project – which will be funded by heritage-focused charity the Clore Duffield Foundation  – are: AOC Architecture, Coffey Architects, Delvendahl Martin Architects, Featherstone Young, and Hayhurst and Co.

RIBA Competitions said 47 expressions of interest in the project were received from members and chartered practices.

RIBA head of learning Elizabeth Grant said the institute had been “thrilled by the sheer enthusiasm” shown for the Clore Learning Centre, which she said was evident in the range of thoughtful and creative responses submitted.

“With this shortlist I am confident that we will find the right team to design a permanent home for architecture in London: an exemplar learning studio to inspire the widest-possible public – children, young people and adults – in exploring architecture for years and years to come,” she said.

RIBA’s brief for the competition was to provide 365 sq m of new space that supported hands-on, creative activities for all ages. It’s public education programme already serves around 10,000 people per year.

The institute said it expected to announce the winning practice for the learning centre in early October.