Patrick Campbell has been appointed as the new head of studio at the prestigious international architecture firm Foster + Partners. This significant leadership appointment comes as the firm continues to expand its global operations and take on major architectural projects worldwide.
The announcement is part of broader developments in the UK architecture and design sector, which has seen numerous high-profile project updates and appointments recently. Cambridge has been designated as the UK Design Capital of the Year, with city planners working on strategies for creating a denser and more connected urban future that balances growth with sustainability.
Several major development projects are currently making headlines across Britain. Plans have been submitted for a massive 2,300-home residential redevelopment project at the former GlaxoSmithKline headquarters site. Additionally, Howells architecture firm has submitted comprehensive plans to replace the historic Blackfriars Crown Court building with a modern 600-bed student residential scheme, marking a significant shift in urban land use.
The architecture community has also faced some challenges, including the gutting of Robert Adams' Woolton Hall in a suspected arson attack, raising concerns about the protection of significant architectural heritage. Meanwhile, Aukett Swanke has stepped in to replace Eric Parry on a stalled City hotel development scheme that had been facing delays.
Notable success stories include the Bradford Live project, where Tim Ronalds Architects worked closely with local residents to save their historic cinema building and transform it into an impressive 3,800-capacity music venue. The project demonstrates how community engagement and architectural innovation can preserve cultural heritage while meeting contemporary needs.
Other significant developments include the search for an architect to design a co-living scheme at Glasgow's Met Tower, and RCKa's installation of a prototype modular housing solution outside City Hall as a response to the ongoing housing crisis. The rise of single-family housing within the build-to-rent sector is also reshaping suburban development patterns across the country.
In a unique crossover between architecture and sports, Knight Architects' bridge design has been featured prominently on Sunderland Football Club's home kit for the 2025-26 season, showcasing how architectural landmarks can become symbols of civic pride and identity.
