RIBA Clore Learning Centre

The Clore Learning Centre at the RIBA is a destination for the public to engage with architecture as part of a creative learning programme. It includes a dedicated studio, study room, outdoor roof terrace and an interactive display area showcasing the Centre’s work. The new spaces are designed to be inspirational setting for hands-on, creative activities for a range of audiences, from children and families to life-long learners.

Completed in 2019, the project comprises the remodelling of 600m2 of accommodation at the RIBA’s Grade II* listed headquarters at 66 Portland Place in central London. The Learning Centre aims to transform how the public learns about and responds to architecture and was made possible by a generous grant from the Clore Duffield Foundation. Hayhurst and Co. were selected for the projected following a two-stage competition led

The Learning Centre is made up of a series of engaging architectural interventions for tactile, hands-on learning that build on the character of the iconic, 66 Portland Place building to create a cohesive learning experience, referencing detailing, motifs and materials seen throughout the architecturally-rich building.

The designs were developed around the techniques of the RIBA Learning Team by using the building as a tool for ‘learning about architecture’ and by creating new and contemporary narratives for it, providing opportunities for the RIBA learning programmes to be a visible and active part of the life of the RIBA.

The Clore Studio invites visitors to engage physically with the space, developing an understanding of the architecture that surrounds us every day, whilst providing a practical and flexible space for a wide range of learning programmes. The space is a made up of series of delightful and adaptable interventions that promote an understanding of architecture through interactive learning; observing, testing, making and sharing.

Display cabinets proudly exhibit work produced by RIBA learning programmes, while magnetic & drawable folding cabinet fronts enable presentation of work and display of drawings. Tiered bamboo steps and modular stools provide flexible seating for lectures and workshops or can be used as work surfaces or exhibition plinths. Ceiling frames allow construction of large-scale installations or sub-division of the space.

Materials used were selected to be tactile and intriguing; laminated bamboo cabinetry visibly shows how the material is grown, cut and assembled; stools and cabinetry fronts made from recycled yoghurt pots display flecks of foil lids and sell-by dates, giving new life to a single-use plastic material. Tactile brass references materials used in door handles and handrails throughout the building, inviting interaction.

Studio lighting is colour temperature tuneable from warm to cool light, able to mimic outside bright natural daylighting, aiding alertness and concentration, or adjusted to warmer, dimmer lighting, which can be more conducive to creative thinking. Perforated acoustic ceilings visibly display how acoustic absorption works.