The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has officially unveiled its new brand identity, marking a significant milestone for the prestigious architectural organization. This rebranding effort comes during a period of substantial changes across the British architecture and construction industry, with several major firms and projects experiencing notable developments.
The architectural sector is facing challenging times, as evidenced by Make Architects' recent decision to cut a quarter of its staff while the firm continues to operate in the red. This downsizing reflects broader economic pressures affecting architectural practices across the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, other significant industry news includes reports that Foster + Partners is reportedly preparing to abandon its canopy design for the new Manchester United stadium project, suggesting major revisions to one of the most anticipated sports venue developments in recent years.
In government appointments, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has named a former Foster + Partners partner as its interim chief construction adviser, bringing high-level private sector expertise to public construction oversight. On a more positive note for development projects, Wilkinson Eyre Architects has received approval for its ambitious 31-story tower in the City of London, demonstrating continued confidence in major urban development despite economic uncertainties.
The industry is also recognizing excellence through various awards and acknowledgments. The Architect of the Year Awards (AYA) 2025 has announced its shortlists for the Refurbishment and Reinvention categories, highlighting innovative approaches to transforming existing buildings. However, the architectural community recently mourned the loss of Sir Terry Farrell, who passed away at age 87. The renowned architect was remembered as a restless maverick who fundamentally reshaped British urbanism through his visionary designs and planning approaches.
Additional industry developments include new guidance from the European Environment Agency (EEA), which has published a report emphasizing the critical need for architects to prioritize acoustic performance when specifying windows in their designs. Meanwhile, David Chipperfield Architects has seen its turnover affected by a stalled project, illustrating how delayed developments can impact even well-established practices. The industry continues to focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail, as exemplified by ongoing discussions about "The Paper Garden" project with Jan Kattein Architects, which showcases the importance of mastering architectural details in contemporary design.
