Memo to Members – Monday 23 May, from Simon Allford, RIBA President

Hello. I thought a short and regular update about what I’ve been doing and what’s happening in and around RIBA might be a good thing to share. So, by no means exhaustive and in no particular order, here’s my first instalment.??

PII is top of the list for many architects and it’s a key priority for me too. RIBA has a group working hard on this, led by Jennifer Dixon, architect, Council and Board member. The group is developing a radical idea on risk management, linking competence to dispute resolution mechanisms which we think could really help – I’ll update more as soon as things develop. On the same topic, last week the ARB announced proposed changes to insurance requirements for architects (see initial response here). We know that not all practices can secure limited fire safety cover at present so we will be responding to their consultation by 4 July and I urge you to respond directly too. ?

If you want to join a conversation with other members about this, login to the Member Hub. If you haven’t signed up to a discussion forum yet – now’s a good time.?

EDI, including widening access to the profession, is a central focus for RIBA. Last week I met with the Department for Levelling-Up, Housing and Communities to talk of plans for the future regulation of the profession. Widening access to the profession and enhancing competence were key themes, and we expressed our strong desire to help lead architectural education reforms to allow more flexible study structures that support better access and inclusion. Apprenticeships and the disruptor courses can sit alongside the more traditional models of learning – offering people more affordable but equally relevant pathways into the profession. Next steps: we’ll be promoting such change through our engagement with the ARB on its Review of Initial Education and Training. I’ve also heard from lots of members who are already running various outreach access courses and engaging the next generation in Primary and Secondary schools. Moving ahead, RIBA can help share and support these initiatives – we have a Council led group looking at this.??

I also wanted to touch on RIBA’s transformation. When I stood for election as President, I was clear that the RIBA needed to be leaner, more agile and more member focused. Well, I’m pleased to say that we are well on our way. The corporate team restructure is almost complete and we're in the process of reducing the property footprint – all to help get the annual deficit down from ￡8m to zero – a target that’s firmly in sight. This financial challenge sits equal to the overarching strategy to harness the diverse skills and talents of engaged members and support you in what you do. I’ll update you with key developments. ?

Coming up?

We have a busy few weeks ahead. ?

We’ll be kicking off Pride month celebrations tonight with a discussion on our recently published Queer Spaces book. Join us. ?

Tomorrow architects, clients, consultants and contractors will be celebrating the Regional Awards – see full coverage in RIBAJ. I’m looking forward to meeting many of you then. This is a key moment in the sun for many practices, particularly up and coming firms who have maybe never won an award before. The media love to cover these projects and clients appreciate the kudos and exposure too. Plus we get to show the public, decision makers and potential new clients of architecture why using architects and commissioning great architecture is so very important. Hats off to everyone.?

I’m currently delivering a (virtual) talks series for members around the world. Following conversations with members in the Middle East and China, I’ll be speaking to members in the USA and Australasia this week. This is a real highlight of my role – connecting and learning from colleagues in our global community.?

Speaking of which, I’ve just returned from the UIA Forum in Madrid, following a flying visit last week to India to present Balkrishna Doshi with the 2022 Royal Gold Medal. Mr Doshi was unable to travel to London to receive the honour, so the medal (and I) went to him. We’ll be formally celebrating his achievement next month – register here. The Madrid event was an RIBA International-led contribution to the UIA Forum: a hybrid event titled Affordable Housing; Mismatch. It featured ten speakers from Europe, Asia, Australasia and South America talking of designing, building, living in and regulating housing. A reminder as Balkrishna Doshi advised that architecture begins only when life takes over – and that’s a good thing to remember!?

More from me next week.??

And please let me know if there is something you would like to hear about specifically.?

Best wishes, ?Simon?