Six schemes on shortlist with winner due in October
The Elizabeth line, the revamp of King’s Cross and a scheme to turn a former dairy farm in Dorset into holiday lets are all in the running for this year’s Stirling Prize.
In all, six projects have been shortlisted for the UK’s most prestigious architectural prize with the winner announced at the Camden Roundhouse later this year.
The remaining three schemes that have been shortlisted are the Park Hill estate in Sheffield, an east London housing scheme and the revamp of the National Portrait Gallery in the middle of London.
Announcing the shortlist, RIBA president Muyiwa Oki, said: “These projects demonstrate the ingenuity and diversity of architecture today. From major national infrastructure to brave and brilliant council-led housing, these varied schemes are united in making sensitive contributions to elevating everyday life.
“Whether raising the bar for social housing, upgrading city transportation or repurposing dilapidated buildings to create heritage-conscious urban and rural developments, each scheme thoughtfully adapts elements of our existing built environment.”
The winner will be announced on 16 October.
Stirling Prize shortlist 2024
Chowdhury Walk, east London, by Al-Jawad Pike
Built on a plot previously occupied by garages and ad-hoc parking, these 11 homes, including seven for social rent, are part of a new wave of council housing in Hackney. The two-storey terrace features a sculptural form and a newly created public thoroughfare for pedestrians and cyclists. The design seeks to ensure privacy and supports passive solar gain.
The Elizabeth line, London Underground by Grimshaw, Maynard, Equation, and Atkins
The Elizabeth Line is designed to carry 200 million passengers annually. The line features consistent cladding, lighting and signage across several of the new stations.
King’s Cross Masterplan, London, by Allies and Morrison and Porphyrios Associates
Over 20 years, the redevelopment of King’s Cross has transformed a former industrial wasteland into a new urban hub. The project includes new streets, squares, offices, schools, university facilities, and residential accommodation, along with restored historic structures. The scheme helped open up the Regent’s Canal to the public and created an extensive new public realm.
National Portrait Gallery, London, by Jamie Fobert Architects and Purcell
This project revitalises a Grade I* listed cultural institution by combining contemporary design with conservation. Enhancements include a new entrance with bronze doors featuring hand-drawn portraits by Tracey Emin, a light-filled learning centre, and accessible public spaces. The design includes accessibility alterations such as an entrance ramp and wider doorways, integrating heritage and modern adaptability.
Park Hill Phase 2, Sheffield, by Mikhail Riches
The second phase of regenerating Europe’s largest listed structure includes modernised internal spaces with open-plan designs and balconies. Thermal imaging has improved energy efficiency and a fresh colour palette references the nearby Peak District. Tree and wildflower planting has been used to redefine the exterior environment of the housing complex.
Wraxall Yard, Dorset, by Clementine Blakemore Architects
A former dairy farm in Dorset has been converted into accessible holiday accommodation with public spaces to engage with wildlife and farming. The development offers extensive accessible features for disabled guests, particularly wheelchair users. Landscaping removes the need for ramps and handrails, while a mix of polished concrete floors and exposed doorframes reduces drag for wheelchairs, making the site more accessible.
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