RIBA is set to spend £85 million on refurbishing its London HQ - but could that money be better spent elsewhere? In this episode of Urban Forecast, we debate how those funds could be used to truly benefit the architectural profession. From AI’s impact on design to the need for research and development, we explore where investment could drive real industry change - rather than becoming a prestige project. Join us for an insightful discussion on how to build a better future for architects and the cities they shape.

Key Takeaways:
AI in Architecture – While AI presents opportunities, it also threatens to erode the traditional role of architects.

RIBA’s Responsibility – The £85 million should be invested in initiatives that truly benefit architects rather than prestige projects.

Incubation Spaces – Creating research and development hubs could drive innovation but would need to be commercially viable.

Material Testing Facilities – Allocating funds to test new materials could help improve sustainability and safety in architecture.

Supporting Young Architects – Financial backing for emerging talent and start-ups would strengthen the profession’s future.

Industry Collaboration – A portion of the funds should go towards fostering stronger connections between architects, developers, and policymakers.

Making Cities Better – Any investment should ultimately contribute to improving the built environment, aligning with RIBA’s core mission.

The Grenfell Impact – The tragedy reshaped building regulations, yet timber, an inherently sustainable material, was banned while other riskier materials remained in use.

Best Moments (Quotes):
“What I don’t think it should be is a vanity project for RIBA. It needs to actually make a difference in building better cities.”

“AI has the potential to reshape the profession, but could it also diminish the role of the architect?”

“Grenfell was a concrete-frame building wrapped in plastic and metal, yet timber got banned. Where’s the logic in that?”

“£85 million sounds like a lot, but when you break it down, it barely scratches the surface of what’s needed.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Riba £85m Proposal - https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/knowledge-landing-page/riba-house-of-architecture-investment-plans-revealed#:~:text=The%20%C2%A385%20million%20proposal,more%20widely%20than%20ever%20before

Ackroyd Lowrie - https://www.ackroydlowrie.com/

EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT

How ESG can make you money and help the planet with Andy Cox - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqQWYGnAuYQ

Is the Future of Housing Rental? With Michael Keaveney from Grainger PLC - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KUCVQHJ0Hg

ABOUT THE HOSTS

Jon Ackroyd and Oliver Lowrie, the visionary hosts of Urban Forecast, bring their expertise from leading their innovative practice, Ackroyd Lowrie. Known for pushing the boundaries in urban design, Jon and Oliver use their podcast to delve into the future of cities, sharing insights from their work on projects that emphasise sustainability, community, and transformative architecture. Through Urban Forecast, they engage listeners with discussions on how architecture and design shape urban living, aiming to inspire new ways of thinking about the spaces around us.

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