The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has revealed a shortlist of seven teams in the running to lead the refurbishment and modernization of its 66 Portland Place headquarters in London. 

RIBA announced the planned redesign in October in a move that aims to reimagine the use of its buildings as a majority of its workers report that they prefer to work from home due to the pandemic. In January, RIBA Chartered Practices formally issued a tender for practices to submit expressions of interest to help develop a brief, including design options and budget proposals to create a fully accessible, more flexible, and sustainable building. RIBA also wants to establish three new gallery spaces. The winning team is expected to lead the project and coordinate the design team appointed to deliver the refurbishment. 

The project forms part of RIBA’s House of Architecture initiative that aims to inspire members, professionals, students, and the public through physical and virtual debate, discussion, learning, and exhibitions. 

The shortlisted practices are: 

• Benedetti Architects
• David Kohn Architects
• Donald Insall Associates, Freehaus, and IDK
• Feix&Merlin with Haptic Architects & Heritage Architecture
• Hall McKnight
• Hugh Broughton Architects
• Roz Barr Architects

“Our vision for RIBA’s House of Architecture is to create opportunities for virtual and physical interaction and inspiration — and 66 Portland Place is a key destination in this program. The building is both impressive and an important asset, but it requires essential modernization to ensure it is fully accessible, fit for the future, and an exemplar of sustainable retrofit,” said RIBA President Simon Allford. “The terms of our lease make the building our long-term home, and it is vital that we get it into the best shape for all members, visitors and clients, for years to come.”

Each shortlisted team will receive £5,000 + VAT ($6,670) to produce their report, addressing points such as approach, EDI, sustainability strategy, and methodology. Design and funding options will then be fully considered by the RIBA Board for decision. According to RIBA, work is unlikely to take place until late 2023.