The Royal Institute of British Architects has announced the Stirling Prize shortlist, highlighting six "purposeful yet unassuming" British buildings. The 2024 shortlist, selected from RIBA National Award winners, will be judged by Alex Ely, Benedetta Tagliabue, David Light, Minna Sunikka-Blank, and Yana Peel, with the winner revealed on 16 October 2024. Read SURFACES REPORTER (SR)’s complete report below:
First awarded in 1996, the RIBA Stirling Prize honors the year's most significant building. This year, only two projects are outside London: Park Hill Phase 2 in Sheffield by Mikhail Riches and Wraxall Yard in Dorset by Clementine Blakemore Architects. The four London-based projects are Chowdhury Walk by Al-Jawad Pike, The Elizabeth Line by Grimshaw and partners, the National Portrait Gallery overhaul by Jamie Fobert Architects and Purcell, and the King's Cross Masterplan by Allies and Morrison and Porphyrios Associates. RIBA president Muyiwa Oki commended the projects for emphasizing regeneration and restoration.
Why were they shortlisted?
"These projects showcase architectural ingenuity and diversity," said RIBA president Muyiwa Oki. "From national infrastructure to council-led housing, they elevate everyday life. Whether enhancing social housing, upgrading transportation, or repurposing buildings, each scheme thoughtfully adapts existing environments. This is purposeful, unassuming architecture that brings joy and strengthens society."
Last year’s winner, the John Morden Centre, set a new benchmark for quality in social healthcare
Chowdhury Walk by Al-Jawad Pike
Chowdhury Walk, designed by Al-Jawad Pike, features 11 homes in Hackney, seven of which are social housing. It’s the studio’s first Stirling Prize nomination. Built on a former parking site, the panel praised it as "an exemplary blueprint for social housing," noting its "sculptural form" and integration into a new public thoroughfare for pedestrians and cyclists.
The Elizabeth Line by Grimshaw, Maynard, Equation, and Atkins
The Elizabeth Line in London, praised as a "mammoth feat of construction and collaboration," has won RIBA's London Building of the Year and is now a contender for the Stirling Prize. Described as a "transport tour de force," it sets a new standard for inner-city transport and connects Berkshire to Essex. Named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II, it has been recognized for its significant impact on urban infrastructure.
King's Cross Masterplan by Allies and Morrison and Porphyrios Associates
The King's Cross Masterplan, a 20-year project, has been lauded for its "remarkable reintegration and regeneration." The development, featuring new streets, squares, offices, and public spaces, has transformed the area into a vibrant hub. The "urban beach" by Regent's Canal is praised as a valuable addition to London’s public realm.
National Portrait Gallery, London by Jamie Fobert Architects and Purcell
The National Portrait Gallery, recently refurbished and reopened, now features a new bronze entrance by Tracey Emin, a light-filled learning center, and enhanced accessibility with an entrance ramp and wider doorways. The judges praised the improvements for enhancing visitor experience and accessibility.
Park Hill Phase 2, Sheffield by Mikhail Riches
Park Hill in Sheffield, originally opened in 1961, is known for its ambitious design. The second phase of its regeneration by Mikhail Riches has been nominated for the Stirling Prize. The estate also inspired the Olivier-winning musical Standing at the Sky’s Edge, which recently concluded its West End run.
Wraxall Yard, Dorset by Clementine Blakemore Architects
Wraxall Yard, once a dilapidated dairy farm, has been transformed into an inclusive and accessible rural retreat. The jury praised its discreet accessible features, which offer high independence for disabled guests, including clever landscaping that minimizes the need for ramps and handrails.
Mikhail Riches is the only studio this year to have previously won the Stirling Prize. Allies & Morrison, Jamie Fobert Architects, and Grimshaw have also been shortlisted before. The 2023 Stirling Prize went to The John Morden Centre by Mae, a daycare center for Morden College retirement community in London.