Impressive new architecture across Britain in RIBA’s Stirling Prize 2015 shortlist

The mix of new concrete buildings with older buildings gives the school a sense of architectural history. With its playfully arranged modular sections and contemporary concrete cladding, the building gives a practical, grown-up tone to the school, whilst retaining a level of fun. 

Bold and characterful, the new campus buildings for Burntwood School help to inspire education. The collaborative project brought architectural firm Allford Hall Monaghan Morris together with landscapers and a graphic designer to build an environmentally friendly campus area.

An example of structurally expressive architecture, the building’s exo-skeletal structure and nearly detached lift-towers offer a modern landmark to the area. The luscious landscaped entrance gardens and rich detailing of the building are very different to many other housing projects in the inner city around the world. The gardens remain open to the public during the daytime, providing a small retreat for the public from London’s busy culture.

Fitting impressive architecture into London’s already tightly packed districts is not a venture to take lightly. Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners squeezed the NEO Bankside towers between some single-storey almshouses and the monoliths of Tate Modern, offering amazing 360-degree views out over London.

Removing many of the 1960's additions to the building, the gallery is now reminiscent of 1950s Aalto, with elegant new areas and exposure to the traditional grandeur. The new architecture fuses seamlessly with the existing building work but offers individual character all of its own; so it’s no surprise that the work has been recognised in Whitworth being named 2015’s Museum of the Year by Art Fund.

Designed by MUMA, The University of Manchester owned gallery saw a grand reopening earlier this year. Extending the 19th Century building, the project brings the gallery closer to the outdoors with the floor-to-ceiling windows lining its perimeter. Embracing its surrounding park has revitalised the gallery, calling for a higher environmental strategy and standards. 

2015 has been a strong year for architectural development, and RIBA recently announced the shortlist for 2015’s Stirling Prize, confirming the growth of innovative and original design.

From the bold luxury housing towers of NEO Bankside to the impressive glass frontage of the Whitworth gallery’s extension, all of the six shortlisted projects have had a positive impact on the local culture. Find out more about some of the shortlisted projects…