Architectural excellence award for Brighton's i360

The Brighton seafront attraction is among 49 buildings in the UK to receive the award from the Royal Institute of British Architects.

The prestigious awards are given to buildings across the UK which are recognised as making ‘significant contributions to architecture’.

The structure was praised by judges, who said there was 'a sense of delight in the way the pod emerges from the bowels of the earth, which can be enjoyed by passers-by'.

David Marks, British Airways i360 chairman, said: “The entire team behind British Airways i360 is thrilled to have received a 2017 RIBA National Award. This award is a testament to the close partnership between architects, engineers, the West Pier Trust, Brighton& Hove City Council, Coast to Capital LEP, and the Brighton i360 company; all working together to drive regeneration and economic progress in the city."

RIBA president Jane Duncan said: "RIBA National Awards provide insight into emerging design trends, as well as showing how well the profession responds to economic drivers. I am delighted to see such confident, innovative and ambitious architecture delivered in such challenging times."

Last month, British Airways i360 was awarded a 2017 RIBA South East Award, as well as being honoured with three South East RICS Awards, including ‘Project of the Year’.

The shortlist for the prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize, recognising the ‘greatest contribution to the evolution of architecture over the past year’, will be selected from the 49 RIBA National Award-winning buildings.