It’s that time of year again and as usual the RIBA don’t disappoint with six stonking buildings on the 2008 shortlist. As I’m yet to visit any of the buildings it’s hard to have a firm favourite but already I’m leaning towards Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid and her Nordpark Cable Railway. Nominated in previous years bur yet to take home the much-coveted gong, perhaps this will be Hadid’s year.
The bookies are currently making the Manchester Civil Justice Centre the favourite but the Stirling Prize judges often throw us a curve ball and there’s no reason to expect different in 2008. It sounds very cheesy but from what I’ve read about the nominees, whichever building wins will be richly deserving of such a sought-after prize.
You can find out more about the Stirling Prize nominees and judges on 4Homes, and you can catch the full RIBA Stirling Prize ceremony on October 12th on Channel 4. In the meantime, let me know who you think should walk away with the RIBA Stirling Prize 2008…
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It’s always an exciting time of year when the buildings are announced and it’s a talking point in our office.
The buildings are great examples of Architecture and if you get the opportunity to visit one, grab it!
Matthew, what did you make of Accordia winning? I haven’t had time to properly visit any of this year’s shortlist, which is pretty shoddy to be honest. I have walked past the Civil Justice Centre and Royal Festival Hall but not been inside either and I’ve got to say I found the Civil Justice Centre impressive in scale but it felt very much like what I feel it is – a showy example of modern urban regeneration that doesn’t have much soul and perhaps tries a little bit too hard. I wanted Hadid to win, because I love her curves (on the building of course…)
Rich.
From what I have seen, I liked both the Justice Centre and Accordia – after all I have always admired the work of Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios and Alison Brooks Architects. Having said that I like Hadid’s work as well, although it’s not personal enough for me.
Unfortunately I am like you in that I have not had time to visit them.
Must make amends.
Yeah there’s no excuse really, especially with four of the six shortlisted buildings in the UK! It’s on my to-do list…
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