The rivalry between England and Germany continues, as two of motoring’s giants engage in competition for the prestigious Stirling Prize, awarded by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). The McLaren Technology Centre, in Woking, Surrey, and the BMW Central Building, in Leipzig, Germany, are both on the shortlist for this year’s prize.
Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, BMW’s central building is distinguished by its stylish industrial looks and functionality as the central hub for the manufacturer’s factory complex. McLaren’s Technology Centre, designed by Foster and Partners, is a glass paradise described by McLaren CEO Ron Dennis as “a showcase of industrial architecture for the 21st century”.
Won last year by 30 St Mary Axe, otherwise known as ‘the Gherkin’, in London, the Stirling Prize is now in its tenth year and the ceremony will this year be televised in the UK on Channel 4 on 15 October. BMW and McLaren’s efforts will compete against the likes of the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh and the Jubilee Library in Brighton for the prize. The winning architect will receive a cash prize of £20,000.
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