Rogers Stirling Harbour + Partners (RSHP), the prominent British architecture firm, has announced that its UK workload remains steady despite experiencing a significant profit decline in the previous year. The firm's statement comes amid ongoing challenges in the construction and design sectors across Britain.
Meanwhile, Foster + Partners has revealed plans for a massive tower development at London's Canary Wharf financial district, which is set to serve as the new headquarters for American banking giant JPMorgan Chase. The proposed skyscraper represents one of the most significant commercial developments planned for the area, highlighting continued international investment in London's financial sector despite economic uncertainties.
In other architectural news, John McAslan + Partners has presented an alternative redevelopment proposal for Liverpool Street station, offering a competing vision for one of London's busiest transportation hubs. The firm's plans provide a different approach to the station's modernization, emphasizing innovative design solutions for the historic railway terminal.
Architectural advocate Jack Pringle has made a strong defense of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), stating that if the organization didn't already exist, it would need to be created. His comments come amid ongoing discussions about the role and value of professional architectural institutions in the modern construction industry.
Stirling Prize winner Mæ Architects has submitted planning applications for an almshouse development project in Bermondsey, South London. The scheme represents the firm's commitment to innovative social housing solutions, building on their award-winning reputation for thoughtful residential design.
The UK's construction industry faces new financial pressures following the 2025 Budget announcement. Construction companies will be required to pay higher minimum wages under the government's new policies, though they have been spared from a costly increase in landfill taxes that many in the industry had feared.
Architectural firm Barr Gazetas has emphasized its focus on designing sustainable culture within the built environment, reflecting the growing emphasis on environmental responsibility in contemporary architecture practice. Additionally, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced the devolution of £1.3 billion in flexible funding to seven mayors across England, specifically targeted at improving skills development and infrastructure projects throughout the country.
