RIBA is pleased to announce its programme of exhibitions and events, ahead of the upcoming temporary closure on 31 May of RIBA’s iconic building at 66 Portland Place for refurbishment. More exhibitions, talks, and events will continue at RIBA North and other locations in London and the region.
The programme includes the annual Royal Gold Medal exhibition celebrating the work of this year’s recipient SANAA, the collaborative practice of Japanese architects Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa, culminating in RIBA Late, an evening of insightful architecture talks, curator-led tours, plus live music and performances from some of RIBA’s creative collaborators.
RIBA’s public programme explores architecture’s excellence and its impact on people, communities, and the planet through RIBA’s world class collections as well as new commissions. You can experience this at 66 Portland Place in London until its temporary closure and at RIBA North on the Liverpool waterfront.
Details for RIBA’s full exhibitions and events programme for the second half of 2025 will be announced soon.
Exhibitions
Atelier Li Xinggang: Integrated geometry and poetic scenery
26 March to 23 April 2025
RIBA Practice Space, 66 Portland Place, London
This exhibition focuses on recent projects by the renowned Chinese firm Atelier Li Xinggang, led by Li Xinggang, the architect behind Beijing’s Bird’s Nest stadium. Working together with the RIBA China chapter, this exhibition highlights large scale works by the studio, bringing together 50 plus projects, for the first time displaying models, drawings, photography and film.
Li Xinggang is renowned for creating spaces that embody the traditional Chinese belief in the harmonious coexistence and mutual flourishing of nature and human creations. His notable work includes Jixi Museum, Tianjin University New Campus Gymnasium, and the Third Space Residential Complex.
Find out more about the acclaimed architect here.
Last Chance To See: Difficult Sites: Architecture Against the Odds
Closing on 31 May 2025
RIBA Architecture Gallery, Ground Floor, 66 Portland Place, London
The final exhibition at 66 Portland Place explores remarkable feats of architectural achievement in the face of tricky terrain, awkward urban plots, challenging remodels, and more. Including work from history’s most renowned architects Neave Brown, Grimshaw Architects, and Norman Foster as well as contemporary practices of Tonkin Liu, KnoxBhavan, and Carmody Groarke the exhibition highlights the pioneering spirit at the heart of great architecture.
Find out more about the exhibition here.
Royal Gold Medal exhibition
2 May to 31 May 2025
RIBA Practice Space, 66 Portland Place, London
RIBA North and Tate Liverpool, Mann Island, Liverpool
Opening at RIBA galleries in both London and Liverpool, the exhibitions will celebrate the career of this year’s Royal Gold Medallist, SANAA, the collaborative practice of Japanese architects Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa. The displays will present ten of SANAA’s noteworthy projects through a series of photographs by renowned Dutch photographer Iwan Baan, which celebrate simplicity, elegance, and light.
SANAA is best known for their projects that champion sustainability, inclusivity and accessibility. Their major works include the New Museum of contemporary art, New York, the Rolex Learning Centre, Lausanne, Switzerland, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa, Japan, and many more.
Find out more about SANAA’s work.
Events, talks, and lectures
RIBA + VitrA, Building Empathy: Unity of Place
With Takeshi Hayatsu, Director at Hayatsu Architects, Lee Ivett, Head of the Grenfell-Baines Institute of Architecture and Founder of Baxendale, and Anna Mansfield, Director at Publica
Chaired by Louise Duggan, Head of Regeneration, GLA
15 May 2025, 7pm to 8.30pm
66 Portland Place, London
The first of RIBA’s 2025 series of talks featuring emerging and established international architects delivered in partnership with VitrA Bathrooms, will be taking place on 15 May.
Drawing on their own experiences and case studies, the panel will explore how empathy, craftsmanship, and community participation can shape lasting and inspiring spaces. Gain insights into the importance of designing spaces that are not only functional but also emotionally resonant, creating a sense of belonging and pride.
Now in its seventh year, the 2025 RIBA + VitrA Talks Programme explores the power of design to create positive change in communities. This year’s theme, Building Empathy: Design for our time, highlights the role of architects in shaping environments that are accessible, meaningful, and responsive to the people who use them.
Through a series of thought-provoking talks, leading architects will share their approaches to empathy-driven design, social value in architecture, and creating spaces that foster belonging. From community-led housing to transformative public spaces, these discussions will showcase innovative solutions that create a lasting impact.
The new talks programme will continue in autumn 2025 with a further panel event at RIBA North, and a keynote lecture at a major London venue. RIBA + VitrA will also be co-hosting a webinar in June on the topic of hygiene in bathroom settings.
RIBA Late: Under (Re)Construction
20 May 2025, 7pm to 10pm
RIBA, 66 Portland Place, London
The last RIBA Late before the temporary closure of 66 Portland Place for refurbishment. This will be an evening of insightful architecture talks, curator-led tours, plus live music and performances from some of RIBA’s creative collaborators.
With a special performance from RIBA Honorary Fellow Rhael 'LionHeart' Cape, and a unique collaboration between RIBA and the Royal College of Art, guests can explore 66 Portland Place’s history, craftsmanship, and the creative forces within.
Additionally, you can take home an exclusive RIBA Edition print, available for purchase at 50% off on the night, or try your luck in the RIBA Raffle for a chance to win one or more.
RIBA is also celebrating Royal Gold Medal winner SANAA, led by Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa, with a special screening of Tokyo Ride. This visually immersive film, by renowned filmmakers Ila Bêka and Louise Lemoine, offers a unique journey through the heart of Tokyo, seen through the eyes of SANAA’s Ryue Nishizawa.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- Media contact: Jenny.Webber@riba.org
- The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on twitter for regular updates.
- RIBA’s public programme explores architecture’s excellence and its impact on people, communities and the planet, through RIBA’s world-class collections as well as new commissions. You can experience this at 66 Portland Place in London until its temporary closure and at RIBA North on the Liverpool waterfront.
