Architecture firm Wilkinson Eyre has received the green light for its 31-story tower project in the City of London, marking another significant addition to the capital's evolving skyline. The planning approval represents a major milestone for the high-rise development, which promises to bring modern office space and facilities to one of the world's leading financial districts.
Meanwhile, several other major architectural developments are making headlines across the industry. Foster + Partners is reportedly preparing to abandon its canopy design for the new Manchester United stadium project, signaling a potential shift in the approach to one of the most anticipated sports venue developments in recent years. The decision to ditch the canopy design suggests the firm may be reconsidering various aspects of the stadium's overall architectural vision.
The architectural community is also mourning the loss of renowned architect Terry Farrell, who passed away at the age of 87. Farrell's death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and industry professionals, with two comments already posted reflecting on his significant contributions to British architecture and urban planning throughout his distinguished career.
In other project news, Adjaye Associates has successfully completed a timber performance pavilion in Barbados, showcasing the firm's expertise in sustainable construction methods and tropical architecture. The pavilion represents an innovative approach to performance spaces in Caribbean climates, utilizing timber construction techniques that respond to local environmental conditions.
The construction industry continues to face economic challenges, with Make Architects cutting a quarter of its staff as the firm remains in financial difficulty. This development highlights the ongoing pressures facing architectural practices in the current economic climate, as firms struggle to maintain operations amid reduced project pipelines and market uncertainties.
Sector leaders have welcomed the government's new towns announcement but are raising concerns about viability and infrastructure challenges that could impact successful implementation. The mixed response reflects the industry's cautious optimism about large-scale development initiatives while acknowledging the practical obstacles that must be overcome.
In a remarkable engineering feat, a 700-year-old church has been suspended on stilts at Eric Parry Architects' 50 Fenchurch Street tower development, generating significant interest with one comment posted about this innovative preservation approach. This unusual solution demonstrates how modern development can accommodate historic structures through creative architectural solutions.
Industry experts are increasingly focusing on why the humble window has become central to construction's next major challenge, examining how fenestration design impacts energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and building performance. Meanwhile, Pilbrow & Partners is preparing to submit plans for a 69-story Vauxhall tower scheme next month, adding to the growing number of super-tall residential developments in South London.
The industry continues to honor its pioneers through archival content, including a featured interview with Nicholas Grimshaw that provides insights into the legendary architect's career and design philosophy. Additionally, the AYA 2025 shortlists have been announced, with particular attention on the Public Building Architect of the Year category, recognizing excellence in civic and institutional architecture projects.
