RIBA Award for the Laidlaw Library
The Laidlaw Library has won one of the most rigorous and prestigious awards for new buildings in the UK: a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Award.
The judging panel described the Library as “an elegant and precise structure, sitting discreetly in its urban setting. The composition of old and new is a delight … The design is extremely complex but rigorously executed in all manner of detail. It does not compete with the churches on either side but sits harmoniously and maintains the strong vertical emphasis to the grain of buildings and streetscape, just as the architect set out to achieve. Externally the detailing to the Portland stone and windows to Hillary Place are impeccable ... All in all this is a controlled and hugely accomplished piece of architecture.”
Lord Laidlaw, whose £9m gift for the building is the biggest ever received by the University, said: “As soon as I saw the architects’ plans for the Laidlaw Library, I was impressed by the design – and I am even more delighted to see how it has taken shape. I am proud to have been able to support the creation of such an attractive building which, most importantly, provides such a wonderful environment for student work and study.”
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