RIBA Stirling Prize 2021: Kingston University Town House

Kingston University London
Town House
by Grafton Architects
The challenging brief framed a bold aspiration to design the beating heart for Kingston University within a building worthy of the international stage. Combining two dynamically opposed uses - dance studio and library - the result is both technically and spatially excellent, generating a warm, dynamic energy that truly captures the spirit of learning.
Conceptually, the building exploits two key devices: the colonnade and the courtyard. Wrapping the building in a tall colonnade gives it presence on the street, successfully balancing the need to make a landmark statement with the wider need to respond respectfully in size and scale to its context. This objective is further aided by the exquisite detailing of the exposed concrete frame, its language running inside and out, replicated and rotated at each junction but never repeated.
The collision and separation of opposing uses, like a dance itself, creates endless connections through voids, views, stairs and windows. When occupied by people, the dynamic interplay will prevent the building from feeling sterile or institutional.
Visit our website to learn about the RIBA Stirling Prize: www.architectu...
Image credit: Ed Reeve

[@hiccacarryer3624]

As an architect I love it but im pretty sure the average punter will point out it looks quite a lot like a carpark....

[@grendel_nz]

More greenery required to really 'soften' it. The Barbican area are the only overtly in your face concrete buildings I know that 'work' because they are not ugly cold grey, they have vital curves and lots of plants, greenery, and water which help to soften their brutality.

[@suly4346]

As a previous student at glasgow university this doesn't seem very welcoming/secure. It may be 'open' but everything seems hard and uninviting to sit on. Also I don't wan't to be looking at and listening to every tom dick and harry that passes by when i'm trying to study.

[@esraelkalipa3682]

I love this building

[@kraussonny6906]

so nice!!! i love this building!!!

[@californiajeep8000]

very cool building

[@headieddieful]

So much material.

[@betsyrocks]

Very nice. Lucky students.

[@pauljohnson7may]

Reminds me of Spain, this one is white rather than drab grey!

[@serjoe1234]

Glad to be part of the carpentry team installing all the internal windows, doors, seating, ext. The bounce in the central staircase is still there. 3 of the largest pane of fire glass in UK are inside that building!

[@jimadams2290]

Very bland and totally predictable! No innovation or sense of adventure!

[@Sexyoldgeraldorivera]

boring, really really boring.