The Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC), the professional body for the UK’s built environment conservation specialists, has welcomed the launch by England’s Culture and Creative Industries Minister, Ed Vaizey, of a new review of architecture and the built environment, to be undertaken by the renowned architect Sir Terry Farrell.
IHBC President Trefor Thorpe said: ‘As the remit of the review makes clear, good design in architecture is not just about beautiful showpiece buildings. It is also about buildings that work well, and this is never more vital than in the adaptation and regeneration of heritage buildings and structures.’
‘The IHBC warmly welcomes this review, hoping especially that it will take on board the full implications of the remit by addressing the need to develop the skills in understanding and modifying old buildings and improving historic places. Those skills must be closely tied to the informed appreciation of what good imaginative and innovative design can do to reinvigorate existing buildings and places, whether designated or not, so ensuring that they continue to enhance our built environment.’
‘Clearly the IHBC is very glad to see the inclusion of cultural heritage and the built environment as one of the main areas to be looked at, alongside the promotion of skills which is another of our own aspirations. We are also delighted to offer our unrivalled expertise in this specialist area to help achieve the goals set out by the Minister.’
DCMS writes:
The review will look at four main areas:
· Understanding the Government’s role in promoting design quality in architecture and the built environment;
· The economic benefits of architecture – maximising the UK’s growth potential;
· Cultural heritage and the built environment; and
· Promoting education, outreach, and skills.
The intention of the review will be to engage the sector in helping the Department for Culture, Media and Sport develop its thinking about the role for Government in the achievement of high quality design to better influence and shape policy across government.
Ed Vaizey said: ‘Good design builds communities, creates quality of life, and makes places better for people to live, work and play in. I want to make sure we’re doing all we can to recognise the importance of architecture and reap the benefits of good design and I’m delighted Sir Terry Farrell has agreed to undertake this independent review. I now urge all those within the architecture and built environment industry to make sure they get involved and contribute their views.’
Sir Terry Farrell said: ‘I am delighted to be heading this important review at this time. Many countries have an effective architecture policy and I intend to learn from what has worked elsewhere and also learn from all those involved here in architecture and the built environment. Architecture and the built environment is so important to us culturally, economically, socially and environmentally.’
Sir Terry Farrell will also be supported by an expert advisory panel made up of members from across the architecture and design industry who will look at the themes of the review in more detail.
The advisory panel will issue a call for evidence shortly and it’s expected Sir Terry Farrell will produce a report by the end of the year.
Confirmed members of the advisory panel are: Peter Bishop, Alison Brooks, Alain de Botton, Hank Dittmar, Jim Eyre, Thomas Heatherwick, Nigel Hugill, Lucy Musgrave, Robert Powell, Sunand Prasad, Victoria Thornton.
Initial comments and views on the review can be sent to the following email address: FAR@terryfarrell.co.uk
Read the full terms of reference at: LINK
RIBA News: LINK
