Adjaye is only Brit on Obama library shortlist

David Adjaye is the only British architect to make the shortlist for the Barack Obama Presidential Centre.

The only other European practice is Renzo Piano. Norwegian firm Snohetta makes the cut but is described as being based in New York.

The other four architects are all American – Diller Scofidio & Renfro, SHoP Architects and Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects – all New York based – and John Ronan Architects of Chicago.

The competition, launched in August, attracted 140 entries from 25 countries, though the majority were from the States.

The seven shortlisted practices were issued with a request for proposals this week. Their response is due in the first quarter of 2016. While it is not a design competition, they will be expected to produce “defined, visual responses”.

The Obama Foundation has not yet selected the specific site for the development of the Obama Presidential Centre, the firms must submit ideas for two possible sites in Chicago’s South Side – Jackson Park and Washington Park.

The Obama Presidential Centre will include a library holding the presidential archives, a museum focusing on Obama’s presidency and contemporary issues as well as space for programmes and initiatives that advance the foundation’s public mission.

“The foundation received submissions from an impressive list of architects with a range of styles, expertise, and experience,” said Martin Nesbitt, chairman of the Obama Foundation.

“These finalists offer a variety of backgrounds and styles, and any one of them would be an excellent choice. We are excited to see this process moving forward because the Obama Presidential Centre will be so much more than a library – this facility will seek to inspire citizens across the globe to better their communities, their countries, and their world.”