Duke Street Riverside building wins RIBA award

Photography: Joakim Boren

Each year the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) select just a handful of buildings for their regional awards, celebrating the best in architecture across the UK.

As well as the honour of a RIBA East Award 2023 Norwich University of the Arts’ Duke Street Riverside building — designed by Hudson Architects — was recognised for bringing vitality to the local area, promoting the University within Norwich, and providing students with engaging and characterful accommodation.

Our Duke Street Riverside Building seamlessly integrates lecture, performance and public space, and student accommodation all under one roof.

As quoted from the RIBA Regional Jury:

‘Much thought has clearly gone into the way the building responds and contributes to its context. It does this through its massing, the composition of its brick and metal facades and the way it addresses the street, the river and the new public space it frames.

“As you move inside, the triple height hall beyond the entrance loggia is immediately impressive. Lined with timber and giant aluminium expanded metal panels (a repeating motif that hints at the earlier metal works), it is a fine space for teaching, performance and chance meetings, and a grand foyer for the main auditorium.“

Professor Simon Ofield-Kerr, Vice-Chancellor of Norwich University of the Arts, said:

“We’re immensely proud of everyone involved in making this project a success. The award is a testament to the hard work and talent behind the vision to create a truly exceptional building which is a source of inspiration and admiration for our students, staff, and the wider community in Norwich.“