The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced Benedetti Architects as the Lead Architect for the refurbishment and modernisation of 66 Portland Place, London.
Benedetti Architects will lead a design team tasked with transforming the RIBA’s Grade II* listed HQ into a dynamic, accessible and sustainable building.
This project forms part of the RIBA’s House of Architecture initiative to inspire members, professionals, students and the public through physical and virtual debate, discussion, learning and exhibitions.
Benedetti Architects will now work with the RIBA to complete the full feasibility study, which will include the appointment of several smaller practices.
Director of Benedetti Architects Renato Benedetti said: “It’s a tremendous honour to be chosen for this once-in-a-lifetime project. We adore 66 Portland Place and agree it needs comprehensive improvements to be fit for purpose to secure its sustainable future culturally and environmentally, as an exemplar for architects, and for the communication of architecture’s significance to the broadest possible audience.
“As a wide-eyed Canadian student who first visited in 1983, the RIBA felt like the architectural epicentre of the world to me. It would be great to rekindle that sense of excitement and relevance for future generations of architects and lovers of architecture.”
RIBA President Simon Allford said: “We were very impressed with the quality and consideration evidenced in every shortlisted proposal, but ultimately Benedetti Architects’ vision for our project secured their win. They also enthusiastically embraced our idea to work collaboratively with other practices in later stages.
“The transformation of 66 Portland Place is an incredible opportunity for the RIBA and Benedetti Architects to build a detailed brief, a team and a project that is vital to the future of the RIBA.
“This project will be a key physical manifestation of our House of Architecture programme – enabling us to encourage collaboration and inspire architects and architecture. Crucially we will be delivering many activities globally and virtually too, with our own HQ building providing a strong foundation and destination.
“The Lead Architect is also tasked with the practical challenge of bringing a listed building up to scratch, from an accessibility and sustainability perspective. This is urgent and essential work to make 66 Portland Place fit for the future.
“Congratulations to Benedetti Architects – I look forward to working closely together on the next stage.”
RIBA Board Member and Honorary Treasurer Simone de Gale said: "We were highly impressed and enthused with proposals presented by Renato and his team at Benedetti Architects. They were thoughtful, full of energy and delivered on each aspect of the brief. Their appointment aligns with our vision for the RIBA in creating a House of Architecture for all."
Benedetti Architects has worked on the refurbishment of a number of Grade II listed buildings including the award-winning BAFTA Headquarters, Oliver’s Wharf Penthouse, and Portsmouth Guildhall.
It was selected from a shortlist of seven proposals in the second competitive interview phase, based on quality and approach, sustainability strategy, team, methodology and EDI.
Design and funding options will be considered by the RIBA Board for decision in due course. The current construction start date is early 2024.
The judging panel comprised: Simon Allford, RIBA President; Simone de Gale, RIBA Board Member and Honorary Treasurer; Liam McConnell, RIBA Director of Estates & Facilities; Murray Orr, RIBA Board Member (Business & Enterprise); Jack Pringle, RIBA Board Chair; Neal Shasore, Chief Executive/Head of School at The London School of Architecture; MaryAnne Stevens, RIBA Board Member (Heritage); Alan Vallance, RIBA Chief Executive and Sarah Williams, RIBA Client Adviser.
