University’s Bramall Music Building receives prestigious architectural award

The University of Birmingham was honoured at the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) National Awards 2013, and shortlisted for the Sterling prize, for the design of the Bramall Music Building. Adding to a growing collection of awards including a Civic Trust award , the Bramall Music building was among 52 buildings in the UK and Europe to receive RIBA Awards announced on 12 June 2013 (43 in the UK and 9 in the rest of the EU). The RIBA National Awards, established in 1966, are the most rigorously-judged awards for architectural excellence. No matter the shape, size, budget or location, RIBA Award winning-schemes set the standard for great architecture all across the country. The Bramall Music Building completes the iconic red brick Aston Webb semi-circle at the heart of the University and is home to the state-of-the-art, 450-seat Elgar Concert Hall and new residence for the University's world renowned Department of Music. The building, designed by Glenn Howells Architects was specifically recognised by the RIBA for its sympathy to the original design of the surrounding buildings. The recognition highlighted that a thorough understanding of the geometry and detailed construction of the existing buildings, with great attention to detail and materials has resulted in a very successful modern reinterpretation of the byzantine building's style.