Celebrate 90 Years of Architectural Excellence at 66 Portland Place
When the doors of 66 Portland Place first opened in 1934, it marked the beginning of a new era for British architecture. The building, designed by George Grey Wornum, was more than just a headquarters for the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA); it was a bold statement about the future of architecture, encapsulating innovation, collaboration, and the pursuit of design excellence.
As we celebrate its 90th anniversary in 2024, 66 Portland Place remains a beacon of architectural heritage, a vibrant cultural hub, and a testament to the power of design in shaping society. This milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on its storied past, its enduring influence, and its vision for the future.
A Modernist Masterpiece in the Heart of London
66 Portland Place is celebrated as one of London’s finest examples of interwar Modernist architecture. George Grey Wornum’s design won a competition organized by RIBA in the late 1920s, triumphing over more than 280 entries. His approach was a masterclass in blending tradition with modernity, reflecting the forward-thinking ethos of the architectural profession at the time.
The building’s façade is an elegant combination of Portland stone and bronze, featuring a restrained Art Deco style. Carvings by sculptor James Woodford—including the iconic “Architectural Spirit” figures flanking the entrance—add a sense of grandeur and artistic sophistication. Inside, the design balances functionality with aesthetic refinement, from the terrazzo flooring to the oak-paneled council chamber and sweeping staircases.
Wornum’s vision for 66 Portland Place extended beyond its physical structure. He intended it to serve as a hub for architects, a place where ideas could be exchanged and innovation could flourish. Ninety years on, the building continues to fulfill this role, hosting exhibitions, lectures, and events that inspire the architectural community and the wider public alike.
A Hub for Architectural Education and Advocacy
From its inception, 66 Portland Place was designed as a space to celebrate and promote the value of architecture. Its grand interiors include spaces specifically intended for education and dialogue, such as the lecture hall, the gallery, and the library.
The Library: A Treasure Trove of Architectural Knowledge
The RIBA Library, housed within 66 Portland Place, is one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of architectural materials. With over four million items, including drawings, photographs, models, and rare books, the library serves as an invaluable resource for architects, researchers, and enthusiasts.
Its archives chronicle the evolution of architecture, from ancient civilizations to contemporary designs, offering insights into the societal and cultural forces that shape the built environment. Over the decades, the library has played a vital role in preserving the history of architecture while fostering a deeper understanding of its future potential.
Exhibitions and Events: A Platform for Creativity
Throughout its history, 66 Portland Place has hosted groundbreaking exhibitions and events. From showcasing the work of modernist pioneers like Le Corbusier and Alvar Aalto to exploring pressing contemporary issues such as sustainability and urbanization, the building has been at the forefront of architectural discourse.
Notable exhibitions, such as the 2013 Charles Correa: India’s Greatest Architect retrospective and the 2019 Beyond Bauhaus: Modernism in Britain 1933-66, have attracted global audiences and cemented RIBA’s reputation as a leading advocate for design excellence.
Architectural Milestones: Reflecting Societal Change
Over the past 90 years, 66 Portland Place has witnessed—and adapted to—monumental changes in society and architecture. From the post-war reconstruction era to the digital revolution, the building has remained a constant amid the evolving landscape of design.
Post-War Reconstruction and Modernism
In the aftermath of World War II, architecture played a crucial role in rebuilding Britain. RIBA and its headquarters were central to this effort, providing a space for architects to collaborate on designs that would shape the nation’s future. The emphasis on functional, affordable, and innovative design during this period found a natural home in 66 Portland Place, where debates about housing, urban planning, and social equity flourished.
Sustainability and the 21st Century
As concerns about climate change have grown, so too has the focus on sustainable architecture. RIBA has championed this movement, using 66 Portland Place as a platform to promote environmentally responsible design. The building itself has undergone renovations to improve energy efficiency, demonstrating RIBA’s commitment to practicing what it preaches.
66 Portland Place Today: A Living Landmark
Ninety years after its inauguration, 66 Portland Place is more than just a historical building; it is a living landmark that continues to evolve. Recent years have seen significant efforts to modernize the space while preserving its architectural integrity.
Enhancing Accessibility and Inclusivity
One of the most notable developments in recent years has been the emphasis on making 66 Portland Place more accessible and inclusive. Upgrades such as improved facilities for people with disabilities, enhanced signage, and the incorporation of diverse programming reflect RIBA’s commitment to ensuring that the building serves a broad and diverse audience.
A Global Hub for Architectural Excellence
Today, 66 Portland Place is a global hub, attracting architects, students, and visitors from around the world. Its events calendar is packed with lectures, exhibitions, and workshops that address the most pressing challenges facing the architectural profession, from urbanization to the climate crisis.
RIBA’s headquarters also serve as a showcase for architectural talent. The annual RIBA Stirling Prize ceremony, held at 66 Portland Place, celebrates the best of British architecture, highlighting the building’s role as a center for design excellence.
Looking Ahead: The Future of 66 Portland Place
As RIBA looks to the future, 66 Portland Place is poised to remain at the heart of its mission. Plans for the coming years include further modernization efforts, expanded digital offerings, and new initiatives to engage younger generations with the transformative power of architecture.
Digital Transformation and Innovation
In the digital age, architecture is increasingly shaped by technology. RIBA is leveraging digital tools to enhance the way it engages with its audiences, from virtual exhibitions to online lectures. 66 Portland Place is central to this strategy, serving as a hub for cutting-edge technology and innovation.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion
The architectural profession has made strides in recent years to become more diverse and inclusive, but there is still work to be done. RIBA is committed to using its headquarters to amplify underrepresented voices, host discussions on equity, and promote pathways into the profession for people from all backgrounds.
Celebrating 90 Years of Design Excellence
The 90th anniversary of 66 Portland Place is a moment to celebrate its enduring legacy and envision its future. From its striking Modernist design to its role as a hub for education, advocacy, and innovation, the building embodies the best of what architecture can achieve.
As we mark this milestone, we honor the architects, designers, and visionaries who have passed through its doors, shaping not just the built environment but also the culture and values of society. Here’s to 90 years of 66 Portland Place—and many more to come.
Happy Anniversary, 66 Portland Place!