Probably the most iconic building in the 2025 RIBA Awards, the restoration of London’s Elizabeth Tower aims to stand the test of time.
“The Elizabeth Tower is the pinnacle of Parliament: the symbolic heartbeat and timepiece of the nation.” – Purcell
Jury comment:
“Like many conservation projects, appreciating the achievement requires some investigation. The shape of the tower, the clock faces and the sounds of the bells are mostly appreciated from a distance, as a dominant presence within one of the world’s most recognisable skylines. The jury’s inspection was carried out from within, after entering through a very modest door to one side of the main thoroughfare of MPs and parliamentary staff going about their business.
Work led by Purcell at the lower levels included extensive stone repairs, the refurbishment of various interior rooms for exhibitions and admin, and the clever insertion of a passenger lift which must be a welcome addition to the clock engineers and tour guides.”
The countdown is on for the reveal of this year’s Stirling Prize, the biggest night in architecture. Stay tuned for the announcement of the UK’s best new building on 16 October.
Find out more about our awards: https://www.riba.org/explore/awards/
Find out more about Elizabeth Tower: https://www.riba.org/explore/awards/uk-awards/regional-awards/2025/london-awards/elizabeth-tower/
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