RIBA+VitrA: What’s Next for Experimentation in Architecture?

The Royal Institute of British Architects and VitrA Bathrooms bring their 2026 talks series to Manchester with a panel on experimentation in architecture. Titled What’s next for experimentation in architecture?, the evening takes place on Tuesday 10 November 2026 at the People’s History Museum, with doors at 6:15 pm, a 6:30 pm start and a close at 9 pm.

The discussion

The panel asks what role experimentation plays in architectural culture today and how that role is changing. Its starting point is that experimental work does not have to mean radical forms or speculative projects. The speakers will talk about material inspiration, sensory design, collaboration and holistic ways of working with nature, and about the obstacles that come with trying new things in practice.

RIBA picks out a few threads: Studio Weave’s material innovations, Common Practice’s creative approach to co-design, Architecture Unknown’s participatory processes and collective making, Giles Miller Studio’s use of neuroscientific findings in sensory design, and Mizzi Studio’s holistic approach to nature.

Speakers

• JJ Cliff, director of Studio Weave
• Giles Miller, artist and founder of Giles Miller Studio, working in surface, structure and sculpture
• Jonathan Mizzi, founding director of Mizzi Studio
• Yan Wing Le, director of the Manchester studio Common Practice, which designs low carbon buildings rooted in community and place
• Charlie Butterwick, director of Architecture Unknown, which centres its work on community led design and sustainable construction

The conversation is chaired by Samantha Hardingham, an independent writer, curator, designer and lecturer who specialises in experimental architectural practice. Each speaker gives a short presentation before a joint discussion and an audience Q&A, followed by drinks.

The series

2026 is the eighth year of the RIBA partnership with VitrA Bathrooms. This year’s talks run under the theme Excellence in Design, marking 60 years of the RIBA Awards and 30 years of the Stirling Prize.

Tickets and access

Tickets cost GBP 15, or GBP 9 for RIBA members and for concessions, which cover students, people on lower incomes, disabled people and those over 65. RIBA also offers a further discount code on request where cost is a barrier. The venue has step free access, British Sign Language interpretation is provided throughout, and a bar serves alcoholic and alcohol free drinks. Booking is through the RIBA event page.