Dramatic funnel-like ceiling
John McAslan and Partners for Religious Society of Friends
Contract value: £3.3m.
GIA: 1720m2
Friends House is the home of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) in the UK. It is grade II listed and won the RIBA Bronze Medal in 1927. At its heart is the Large Meeting House, which provides 1200 seats for the annual gathering of Quakers – and for lettings.
A huge volume above the suspended ceiling was removed to allow the creation of a dramatic funnel-like ceiling lined with bands of perforated white aluminium. Beneath this dramatic insertion, floor levels were rationalised to create an area for exhibitions, dance and theatre. Elegant oak and upholstered tiered seating incorporates retractable bleachers.
See other winners in the RIBA Regional Awards 2015 – London