The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has marked the 90th anniversary of its landmark London building at 66 Portland Place, launching an exciting new series of digital stories as part of its collaboration with Google Arts & Culture.
The specially curated stories are drawn from RIBA’s collections – among the largest and most significant architectural collections in the world. They include a virtual tour of 66 Portland Place and an exploration of the building’s history, shedding new light on its imperial past - alongside studies of how colour has been used by architects, the collaboration between artists and architects, and the narratives that RIBA’s collections reveal about LGBTQ+ history.
Images (from left to right): The figure of Architectural Aspiration being sculpted above the main entrance of 66 Portland Place,1934 ©RIBA Collections; Steelworkers on site at 66 Portland Place in September
1933 ©RIBA Collections; 66 Portland Place under construction in June 1934 ©RIBA Collections.
The 10 new stories appear with a further 23 already published since RIBA first launched on the Google Arts & Culture platform back in 2021. Together, these profile over 1,000 items in RIBA’s collections which include drawings, photographs, models and artefacts spanning the Renaissance to the present day.
Also coinciding with the 90th anniversary, RIBA has provided an update on House of Architecture – a multi-million improvement programme that includes investment to transform 66 Portland Place into a leading cultural destination for discovering, exploring and debating the practice of architecture.
Following consultation earlier in the year, RIBA is due to publish the latest designs for the building, available to view at a free exhibition at 66 Portland Place and online – from Tuesday 19 November until the end of the year – alongside updates on plans to create an improved online experience and bring together RIBA’s collections so that they can be better cared for, accessed and appreciated.
Designed by George Grey Wornum, 66 Portland Place was officially opened on 8 November 1934 by King George V. Wornum's design was part of a competition to create a new home for RIBA after it had outgrown its original headquarters. On 14 September 1970, the building was granted Grade II* status. Today, it is home to RIBA's architecture galleries, the RIBA Library, a café, the RIBA Bookshop and more.
RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki, said: “66 Portland Place is the jewel in RIBA’s collections. Now, through Google Arts & Culture, we’re unveiling hidden stories from the buildings 90-year history. As we gear up for a bold transformation programme, we’re excited to reimagine these spaces as a dynamic hub for members, visitors, and especially the young minds who will shape the future of architecture.”
Director and Founder, Google Arts & Culture, Amit Sood, said: "RIBA's 66 Portland Place is a landmark of British architecture, and Google Arts & Culture is proud to collaborate with them to share its stories with a global audience. This project not only celebrates the building's 90th anniversary but also furthers RIBA's mission to champion inclusivity and a deeper understanding of architectural history."
