The RIBA London Student Awards 2024 recently concluded at 66 Portland Place, and it was nothing short of inspiring. This year’s event gathered some of London’s brightest emerging architects to celebrate their achievements and innovative designs, all within the historic setting of the Royal Institute of British Architects headquarters. The awards highlighted not only the technical and creative prowess of architecture students but also their passion for addressing real-world challenges through design.
Attendees, including students and built environment professionals, were not only treated to a celebration of new ideas but also reminded of architecture’s rich legacy.
This year’s awards honoured a remarkable variety of student projects, each demonstrating a unique approach to contemporary architectural issues. From eco-friendly designs focused on sustainability to inventive responses to the brief, the projects reflected the diverse talents and viewpoints of London’s architecture students. Many of the submissions tackled pressing issues like climate resilience, and innovative technology in the built environment, showing how the next generation of architects is already committed to positive change. A special prize was awarded by our sponsors Vandersanden to recognize Diversity and Inclusivity to recipients who were able to address these areas within their projects.
The judging panel, comprising of leading professionals from the London Architecture Groups (North, East, South East, South West, West) assessed each project on creativity, feasibility, and its broader impact. This rigorous process ensured that each winner exemplified the technical skill and forward-thinking perspective needed to shape the future of architecture.
Alongside the awards ceremony, attendees had the opportunity to participate in discussions and to network with some of the most influential voices in architecture today. Keynote speakers included architecture assistant Noris Obijiaku, and architects Funmbi Adeagbo and Damion Burrows, who shared valuable insights on the evolving role of architecture and architects today. These discussions covered a range of topics, providing students with a deeper understanding of the profession they are entering.
For many students, this event served as both a milestone and a steppingstone, connecting them with peers and industry innovators who could guide and support them in their careers.
Winning a RIBA London Student Award is a significant achievement, and this year’s winners now join a distinguished network of professionals, gaining visibility within the UK and international architectural communities. The recognition provides a strong foundation as they embark on their careers, whether they choose to innovate in private firms, contribute to public projects, or explore research and teaching.
For everyone who attended, from architecture students and educators to established professionals, the event was a reminder of architecture’s power to shape lives and environments. The RIBA London Student Awards 2024 successfully captured the spirit of innovation that will drive the profession forward—and it’s exciting to think about how these talented young architects will continue to impact the world.
To see all of the student projects recognised, we have posted a digital showcase to our Instagram page (@ribalondon).
