RIBA Journal magazine: | Design in the making

Where are opportunities for architects in the higher education sector?

The sector’s rapid expansion has been tempered by recent financial difficulties. But universities will still have to invest heavily to meet net zero targets, while purpose-built student accommodation continues to attract investors

22 April 2025

O’DonnellBrown: rising Glasgow firm collaborates to punch above its weight

Since relocating to the Scottish capital in 2016, a community-minded ethos, outward focus and local authority expertise have helped the eight-strong practice wield outsized influence

22 April 2025

Social homes impress with subtle variation and practical design touches

In west London, Maccreanor Lavington’s MacFarlane Place scheme for Peabody salutes Victorian blocks while offering satisfying points of difference and tenant-friendly touches such as heat-regulating shutters

17 April 2025

How have architects adopted the UK/US mutual recognition agreement two years after it was signed?

Checking in with four architects on both sides of the pond who have gone through the application process

A modernist Scottish hospital from a celebrated interwar practice

Sir John Burnet, Tait and Lorne's Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Paisley followed the firm's renowned Royal Masonic Hospital in London

In association with Duration Windows

How to retain character when replacing a steel window

Cost-effective, A-rated aluminium alternative offers slender design and easy installation

IDK: balancing big-hitting cultural projects and grassroots work

The practice's work spans from the V&A's David Bowie Centre to working with communities in London and Devon

How will the Planning and Infrastructure Bill affect architects’ work?

Summarising the most important proposed changes in the new legislation

In association with Newframe

Solar PV glass canopies: overhead cover and endlessly renewable power

System works in daylight - not just sunlight - and without the need to be south-facing or installed at 45 degrees

Reforms to architectural education leave many facing an uncertain future

The shifting focus of architectural education means change is the only thing guaranteed

Hotel Romeo Roma: ZHA's palazzo conversion is a love letter to excess

Zaha Hadid Architects’ rework of a 16th‑century Roman mansion strives for beauty through extravagance

In association with Crittall

Beyond black: steel windows get colourful

Everyone's favourite fenestration solutions are now available in three new metallic palettes

In association with Knauf Insulation

How to specify rainscreen insulation that performs as designed

Choosing the right product helps to translate your specification into as-built performance

Delays in the planning system demand open dialogue

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill alone will not fix planning’s real problems, an architect argues

Extension to bomb-damaged Victorian house creates a private oasis

Bindloss Dawes’ generous rear extension to a house in Stoke Newington has a soft acoustic quality

What should architecture practices be checking for to help ensure resilience in challenging times?

As the world reacts to Donald Trump’s tariffs, learn more about how architects can make sure their businesses are as robust as possible

In association with Maxlight

Glazing shapes the way a space is experienced

Useful and beautiful, sliding doors can also be the core component of an architectural vision

For the Avicii Arena, a new retractable roof is an acoustic game changer

A massive new foldaway internal roof enables the venue to rapidly transform in response to its events schedule

In association with Markilux

Activate your RIBAJ account