RIBA to launch investigation into its own competitions

The RIBA is to launch an investigation into its own competition service after mounting concern about the exploitation of architects.

RIBA Council was today due to debate a plan to set up an investigating committee, possibly to be chaired by Martin Knight of Knight Architects.

He said: “Design contests should be one of the best ways for clients to procure excellent design and for architects to demonstrate the value of their skills but, too often, the outcome is compromised.

“A review which results in positive reform would be sensible and timely and it is right for the RIBA to lead on this.”

The move comes after BD revealed that the winning design in a retirement home competition run by RIBA Competitions would not be built.

The winner, Tom Russell Architects, was initially hired by the client, McCarthy & Stone, to do two weeks’ brainstorming.

It was the latest in a string of competitions that has ended with nothing being built. Other examples include the Worcester College scheme which was won by Rick Mather Architects.

Jeremy Till has led calls in the profession for reform, accusing the RIBA Compeitions office of being part of a system that exploits architects.