Uncovering the history of 66 Portland Place
Purcell’s Chairperson Liz Smith shares how cherishing heritage and celebrating craftmanship underpin our approach to reimagining RIBA’s Grade II* listed headquarters in a new film, Uncovering the history of 66 Portland Place.
As Delivery Architect, Purcell is evolving detailed design and now leading delivery of the scheme which Benedetti Architects’ submitted for Planning and Listed Building Consent.
Purcell’s role has shaped conservation strategies, revealing materials and details in the original building and integrating them through design delivery.
The film takes viewers behind the scenes of the project on site, exploring how opening-up works are deepening our understanding of the building’s original design and craftsmanship. Details revealed beneath later alterations provide evidence to guide conservation decisions and help new uses work with the building’s distinctive qualities. RIBA’s ambition is to make its London home a more accessible and engaging place to encounter architecture.
“We want it to be an inclusive and welcoming building that engages everybody in the story of architecture,” Liz explains.
The refurbishment at 66 Portland Place forms part of RIBA’s wider House of Architecture programme, which brings together the restoration and development of its London home, a new digital experience, and plans for a dedicated museum for its collections.
