RIBA National Architecture awards for “exceptional” design.

Library of Birmingham – The Birmingham Press

Two Birmingham buildings have been given a 2014 RIBA National Award by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in recognition of their architectural excellence.

The Library of Birmingham and Waverley School in Bordesley Green are amongst 56 buildings in the UK and Europe which have received RIBA Awards . The shortlist for the coveted RIBA Stirling Prize, for the best building of the year, will be drawn from these RIBA National and EU Award winners.

Speaking today, RIBA President Stephen Hodder said: “This year’s RIBA National Award winners show that exceptional architecture can be found anywhere: on any high street, in any village or town, and with any budget. Good architecture always begins with a committed client and it is extremely heartening to see in this year’s crop of winners, the increasing recognition, notably in the public sector, of the vital role of good design in attracting visitors, students and clients and of the dramatic influence that a beautiful building has on communities and pride.

These buildings show the challenges that can be overcome with pure architectural creativity. It is evident that each building on this year’s list has been a labour of love but worth every penny and effort.”

The Awards are announced as the 2014 Love Architecture Festival gets going across the Midlands. Highlights include the RIBA’s mobile exhibition unit appearing in Wolverhampton and Stoke-on-Trent, the Hidden Spaces exhibition at Curzon Street Station, the announcement of the winner of the Birmingham Civic Society and Birmingham Post’s Re-Imagine Design Competition.