London’s Architectural Gems Vie for 2025 Stirling Prize

The 2025 RIBA Stirling Prize shortlist features four London buildings: the restored Elizabeth Tower (‘Big Ben'), the London College of Fashion, the Appleby Blue Almshouses, and Niwa House. The Elizabeth Tower's restoration, a five-year, £80 million project, is notable for its structural repairs, accessibility improvements (including a lift shaft), and the striking blue repainting of the clock faces, restoring Victorian splendor. The inclusion of the Elizabeth Tower, a historically significant structure, highlights the prize's consideration of both historical preservation and contemporary architectural excellence. The London College of Fashion, a modern design in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, offers public spaces and popular concrete staircases. The Appleby Blue Almshouses provide modern social housing for the elderly, while Niwa House is a Japanese-inspired private residence. Beyond London, the shortlist includes AstraZeneca's Discovery Centre in Cambridge and Hastings House in Hastings. The Stirling Prize, the UK's highest architectural accolade, celebrates projects demonstrating excellent architecture. Past London winners include the Elizabeth line, Morden College, Kingston University's Town House, and the Bloomberg Building, demonstrating London's consistent success in this prestigious award. The winner will be announced on October 16, 2025.

(Source: https://londonist.com/london/latest-news/big-ben-stirling-prize-2025)