Discover RIBA’s Exhibitions and Events Programme this May

RIBA’s public programme explores architecture’s excellence and its impact on people, communities, and the planet through RIBA’s world class collections as well as new commissions. You can experience this at 66 Portland Place in London until its temporary closure and at RIBA North on the Liverpool waterfront. Read on to learn more about the programme.

The programme includes the annual Royal Gold Medal exhibition celebrating the work of this year’s recipient SANAA, the collaborative practice of Japanese architects Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa, culminating in RIBA Late, an evening of insightful architecture talks, curator-led tours, plus live music and performances from some of RIBA’s creative collaborators.

Exhibitions in May

Last Chance To See Difficult Sites: Architecture Against the Odds

The final exhibition at 66 Portland Place explores remarkable feats of architectural achievement in the face of tricky terrain, awkward urban plots, challenging remodels, and more. Including work from history’s most renowned architects Neave Brown, Grimshaw Architects, and Norman Foster as well as contemporary practices of Tonkin Liu, KnoxBhavan, and Carmody Groarke the exhibition highlights the pioneering spirit at the heart of great architecture. Closing on 31 May 2025.

Royal Gold Medal 2025

On view at RIBA galleries in both London and Liverpool, these exhibitions celebrate the career of this year’s Royal Gold Medallist, SANAA, the collaborative practice of Japanese architects Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa. The displays present ten of SANAA’s noteworthy projects through a series of photographs by renowned Dutch photographer Iwan Baan, which celebrate simplicity, elegance, and light.

SANAA is best known for their projects that champion sustainability, inclusivity and accessibility. Their major works include the New Museum of contemporary art, New York, the Rolex Learning Centre, Lausanne, Switzerland, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa, Japan, and many more. 2 May to 31 May 2025 at RIBA Practice Space, 66 Portland Place, London and RIBA North and Tate Liverpool, Mann Island, Liverpool.

Events, talks, and lectures throughout May

RIBA + VitrA, Building Empathy: Unity of Place, 15 May 2025, 7-8.30pm, London

With Takeshi Hayatsu, Director at Hayatsu Architects, Lee Ivett, Head of the Grenfell-Baines Institute of Architecture and Founder of Baxendale, and Anna Mansfield, Director at Publica. Chaired by Louise Duggan, Head of Regeneration, GLA.

The first of RIBA’s 2025 series of talks featuring emerging and established international architects delivered in partnership with VitrA Bathrooms, will be taking place on 15 May.

Drawing on their own experiences and case studies, the panel will explore how empathy, craftsmanship, and community participation can shape lasting and inspiring spaces. Gain insights into the importance of designing spaces that are not only functional but also emotionally resonant, creating a sense of belonging and pride.

Now in its seventh year, the 2025 RIBA + VitrA Talks Programme explores the power of design to create positive change in communities. This year’s theme, Building Empathy: Design for our time, highlights the role of architects in shaping environments that are accessible, meaningful, and responsive to the people who use them.

Through a series of thought-provoking talks, leading architects will share their approaches to empathy-driven design, social value in architecture, and creating spaces that foster belonging. From community-led housing to transformative public spaces, these discussions will showcase innovative solutions that create a lasting impact.

The new talks programme will continue in autumn 2025 with a further panel event at RIBA North, and a keynote lecture at a major London venue. RIBA + VitrA will also be co-hosting a webinar in June on the topic of hygiene in bathroom settings. 15 May 2025, 7-8.30pm at 66 Portland Place, London.

RIBA Late: Under (Re)Construction, 20 May 2025, 7-10pm, London

The last RIBA Late before the temporary closure of 66 Portland Place for refurbishment. This will be an evening of insightful architecture talks, curator-led tours, plus live music and performances from some of RIBA’s creative collaborators.

With a special performance from RIBA Honorary Fellow Rhael 'LionHeart' Cape, and a unique collaboration between RIBA and the Royal College of Art, guests can explore 66 Portland Place’s history, craftsmanship, and the creative forces within.

Additionally, you can take home an exclusive RIBA Edition print, available for purchase at 50% off on the night, or try your luck in the RIBA Raffle for a chance to win one or more. 20 May 2025, 7-10pm, RIBA, 66 Portland Place, London. Free.

On the same night, RIBA is also celebrating Royal Gold Medal winner SANAA, led by Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa, with a special screening of Tokyo Ride. This visually immersive film, by renowned filmmakers Ila Bêka and Louise Lemoine, offers a unique journey through the heart of Tokyo, seen through the eyes of SANAA’s Ryue Nishizawa.

About RIBA

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on X (formerly Twitter) for regular updates.

RIBA’s public programme explores architecture’s excellence and its impact on people, communities and the planet, through RIBA’s world-class collections as well as new commissions. You can experience this at 66 Portland Place in London until its temporary closure and at RIBA North on the Liverpool waterfront.

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