theis + khan finalize new RIBA headquarters in london

theis + khan finalize new RIBA headquarters in london
image © nick kane

british architecture studio theis + khan has completed the redevelopment of the new RIBA offices in london, just a short distance from the institute’s george grey wornum-designed headquarters. conceived as a younger sibling to the main building, the workspace is a reconfiguration of a 1950s building previously occupied by the institute of physics.

the scheme is a reconfiguration of a 1950s building previously occupied by the institute of physics
image © nick kane

the 3,157 square meter scheme comprises three, interconnected elements. at the front, a seven-storey office tower addresses the passing street, while a three level brick mews forms the rear. the two volumes are then linked at ground level by a social ‘forum’ space at the very heart of the building.

a social space is found at the heart of the building
image © nick kane

by creating generous views through the building, the design draws visitors from the fully glazed main entrance through to both the central communal space of the forum and up to the open plan offices. blocks of color on the landing walls aid navigation and provide a sense of identity for each floor, while the uppermost storey contains meeting and quiet rooms available for all staff.

a glazed triple-storey atrium welcomes natural light and allows views in from the adjacent offices
image © nick kane

seen as the key social space, the forum houses a café and is used for both dining and meetings between staff and RIBA members. banquette seating lines the main axis from the front building to the rear mews, with further tables found within the centrally positioned plywood seating and display structure.

a range of seating options are offered
image © nick kane

to the rear of the forum, a glazed triple-storey atrium welcomes natural light and allows views in from the adjacent offices. this glazing also creates a strong sightline towards 66 portland place, visually and symbolically linking the 1930s headquarters with the new offices. the institute’s heritage is also underlined by the incorporation of photographs, maquettes and artworks from RIBA’s own collection. these are placed in the entrance, forum, landings and offices.

booth areas provide space for private work
image © nick kane

‘it was an exhilarating and often challenging project with a tight budget and timescale that dictated a pragmatic approach to ensure money was directed to what mattered,’ commented soraya khan. ‘simple, robust materials and sensitive detailing of found and new surfaces left what comes free – careful planning, natural light, color and well proportioned spaces – to bring delight.’

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