It is an honour to receive a RIBA National Award in recognition of what the Urban Nature Project has achieved. The project transformed five acres of underused land surrounding the Natural History Museum into a visitor attraction in its own right, enhancing the experience and wellbeing for visitors, staff, and the 3,500 species of animals, plants and fungi that call it home.
Perhaps one of the most important reasons behind the project’s success is because it places people, not buildings, at the heart of design. Together, we have shaped a place that offers wonder and enjoyment, a place for scientific research and analysis, places where people want to work, and above all, a place where people of all ages can develop a love and understanding of nature, ecology, and the glory of our natural world.
“Since reopening two years ago, the gardens have connected over 10 million people with nature while supporting world-leading scientific research into urban biodiversity. The gardens are especially vibrant this summer, currently teeming with dragonflies, and we hope every visitor leaves inspired to help protect nature and become an advocate for the planet. It was a pleasure to welcome the judges, and we are honoured to receive this recognition.” – Dr Doug Gurr, Director, Natural History Museum.
