Leading British architecture firm Foster + Partners has been commissioned to design a new London headquarters for the company responsible for developing the Oxford cancer research facility that is receiving funding from the world's second wealthiest individual. This major architectural project represents one of several significant developments currently underway in London's competitive commercial real estate and construction sector.
The news comes alongside several other notable architectural and development announcements across the United Kingdom. The Trump administration has revealed plans for a White House ballroom designed by McCrery Architects, marking a significant interior design project for the presidential residence.
Meanwhile, Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM) is actively working on comprehensive plans for an ambitious 35-story co-living tower that will be located adjacent to the busy Old Street roundabout, one of London's key transportation hubs. This high-rise residential project reflects the growing trend toward co-living spaces in central London areas.
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced its shortlist for the prestigious 2025 Client of the Year award, recognizing outstanding clients who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to architectural excellence and innovation in their building projects.
In international expansion news, McAslan + Partners is preparing to open a new office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as the firm announces another year of substantially increased profits. This move reflects the growing opportunities for British architectural firms in the Middle Eastern market.
Several other major development projects are making headlines across London and surrounding areas. Studio Egret West has submitted detailed planning applications for a large-scale residential development in Croydon, proposing 676 new homes that would significantly contribute to the area's housing supply.
At Heathrow Airport, multiple architectural and engineering teams are competing for the massive airport expansion project. Scott Brownrigg's proposed scheme, valued at £25 billion, includes plans for a shortened runway design that aims to balance capacity expansion with environmental and space constraints.
In regulatory news, an Essex-based architect has received the maximum suspension order from the Architects Registration Board (ARB) after being found guilty of supplying misleading documentation to the regulatory body. This disciplinary action highlights the importance of professional integrity and accurate documentation in the architectural profession.
HTA Design continues to advocate for improved housing standards, building a comprehensive case for better residential design and construction practices across the UK housing sector.
Finally, AHMM has received approval for its student residential block project at Elephant & Castle, adding to the growing number of purpose-built student accommodation developments in South London. This approval represents another step forward in addressing London's student housing shortage while contributing to the ongoing regeneration of the Elephant & Castle area.
