Soane Medal Lecture 2022

Peter Barber is an acclaimed architect who founded Peter Barber Architects and focuses on social housing and urban planning. He has received several awards for his innovative approach to design, including a lifetime achievement award from the Architects Journal and IBA Neave Brown Award for Housing 2021. He was awarded an OBE for services to architecture and elected as a Royal Academician. He lectures on architecture at the University of Westminster and was recently invited by the government to lead a discussion on Designing for Better Public Spaces.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 44 pages
Publication date: 15 December 2022
Publisher: Sir John Soane's Museum

Peter Barber is a highly acclaimed architect and the founder of Peter Barber Architects, a renowned architectural practice focused on social housing and urban planning. His innovative approach to design has earned him widespread recognition, as he has successfully delivered high-quality and affordable housing solutions. Barber's commitment to addressing pressing issues such as the housing crisis, climate emergency, and revitalization of de-industrialized areas has led him to develop speculative projects that respond to these challenges. Over the years, Peter and his firm have garnered numerous accolades, including a lifetime achievement award from the Architects Journal and the IBA Neave Brown Award for Housing 2021. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was awarded an OBE for services to architecture in the past year and was elected as a Royal Academician in January. In addition to his architectural practice, Peter serves as a lecturer on architecture at the University of Westminster and was recently invited by the government to lead a discussion on Designing for Better Public Spaces alongside a team of top built environment professionals.

The Soane Medal, established in 2017 by the Sir John Soanes Museum, carries on the legacy of its founder, the renowned Regency architect Sir John Soane. Its mission is to promote a greater understanding of the critical role of architecture in culture and society. The Medal honors architects, educators, and critics who have made significant contributions to their field through practice, history, or theory.

Peter Barber's remarkable career and contributions to the field of architecture have firmly established him as a leading figure. His dedication to social housing and urban planning has resulted in transformative housing solutions that have improved the lives of many individuals and communities. Barber's innovative approach to design, characterized by his commitment to sustainability and affordability, has set him apart in the architectural world. His speculative projects, which address pressing issues such as the housing crisis and climate emergency, demonstrate his ability to think creatively and find innovative solutions to complex problems.

Peter's recognition and accolades are a testament to his talent and dedication. His lifetime achievement award from the Architects Journal and the IBA Neave Brown Award for Housing 2021 are just a few examples of the many honors he has received. His OBE for services to architecture is a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field. Moreover, his election as a Royal Academician is a testament to his status as a respected figure in the architectural community.

In addition to his professional achievements, Peter Barber is actively involved in teaching and promoting architecture. He serves as a lecturer at the University of Westminster, sharing his expertise and passion for the field with aspiring architects. His involvement in government discussions on Designing for Better Public Spaces highlights his commitment to improving the built environment and creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The Soane Medal, with its focus on promoting a better understanding of architecture's role in culture and society, aligns perfectly with Peter Barber's vision and values. His dedication to social housing, urban planning, and innovative design has made a significant impact on the architectural landscape, and his contributions will continue to inspire future generations of architects. As we look to the future, we can expect to see more of Peter Barber's visionary projects and his continued efforts to shape the built environment for the better.

Weight: 85g
Dimension: 215 x 130 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781999693282