Welcome to my campaign page for the 2026 RIBA Presidential Election. I am proud to announce I am one of this year's candidates, hoping to be elected as the next President of the Royal Institute of British Architects.

“A time of disruption in Architecture practice and in education presents us all with an opportunity to do things differently.”

Has there ever been a more extraordinary moment to be in architecture? Calling this period one of “change” feels like an understatement. For the first time in decades, we have the opportunity to rethink how we practise, how we teach, how we support one another, and how our profession prepares for the future.

Both practice and academia are undergoing simultaneous transformation at a pace I have never witnessed in over 40 years in the industry. This feels like a once‑in‑a‑generation chance to reshape our profession into one that is accessible, vital, affordable, regionally representative, globally connected, and properly supported.

Yet while we share ambitions for fair pay, stability, dignity, workers’ rights, and lifelong learning, the reality for many members tells a different story. Unpredictable workloads, low fees, rising insurance costs, and a sense of distance from where decisions are made persist—particularly outside London. Early‑career architects face high levels of debt, low salaries, and pressure to work unpaid overtime as practices feel forced to underbid simply to survive.

However, being an architect today can still be joyful, socially impactful, and deeply rewarding. If we work collectively and strategically, positive change is possible. That is why I have decided to run for RIBA President this June.

I have laid out my five priorities below:

Priority 1. Supporting ALL Practices Across the UK and Beyond

As President, I will work to enable every practice—large or small, regional or international—to have the tools, support, and visibility needed to thrive.

Priority 2. A Modern, Inclusive, and Accessible Education System

As President, I will support students’ voices so that they can shape the RIBA’s stance on education and that all routes into the profession remain rigorous, fair, affordable, and accessible.

Priority 3. Reasserting the Value of Architects

As President, I will ensure that architects’ skills are protected and promoted boldly, consistently, and strategically.

Priority 4. Unlocking New Work Through Low‑Carbon Retrofit, Housing and Safety Reform

As President, I will ensure the RIBA positions architects at the forefront of retrofit, safety reform, and the delivery of affordable, low‑carbon housing—unlocking abundant new opportunities while putting people and the planet first.

Priority 5. Stronger, Smarter, More Effective Lobbying

As President, I would build on my own experience to strengthen the RIBA’s strategic lobbying capacity with the UK Government so that architects are heard where decisions are actually made.

This is our moment. Let’s take it.

If you want to know more about my ambitions to become the next RIBA President please contact me on duncan@bakerbrown.studio.

#DBB4RIBAPresident2026