The RIBA Stirling Prize 2019
Named after architect James Stirling, the Royal Institute of British Architects Stirling Prize is without a doubt the most prestigious award in architecture. RIBA President Ben Derbyshire explained that although the buildings “could hardly be more diverse in typology and scale” they have “ground-breaking innovation, extraordinary creativity and the highest quality materials and detailing” in common.
Among the six varied nominees, BCL is over the moon to announce that two of our projects have made the cut, both using a BCL timber slat ceiling. Both London Bridge Station and The Macallan Distillery have already won their fair share of awards, so it is no surprise that these two are up for the Stirling Prize.
London Bridge Station
Designed by Grimshaw Architects, London Bridge underwent a £1 billion redevelopment that took five years to complete, with BCL Western Red Cedar acoustic wood panels at the heart of it. The main concourse is clad with our high performance acoustic timber panel system. This allows the sound from the busy station to be absorbed effectively, reducing the level of noise from passengers and trains. The fully demountable wood slat ceiling panels use our secret fixings to ensure a smooth finish and involve integrated lighting troughs. The new concourse allows a lot more natural light into the station, taking away the usual dark and gloomy feel from London train stations.
The Macallan Distillery
The Macallan Distillery was completed as part of a £500 million investment in the Macallan brand. Designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour and Partners, this building is beautifully different from the inside out. Detail is everything here, with the choice in timber species selected as EU oak, as a nod to their sherry-seasoned oak casks. BCL timber panels cover 361 m2 of the main reception area, with all being covered in a factory applied lacquer of clear class 0 fire protection, providing fire safety without needing maintenance. By using natural materials such as local stone, a living green roof and of course, timber, the distillery provides interesting and refreshing experience for visitors.
Regardless of the outcome of October 8th, it is already such an achievement to have two contrasting and stunning buildings that heavily feature our timber make the shortlist. We wish all the nominees the best of luck.
