The Isle of Wight Branch of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has organised a new series of lectures and building visits for those working across the built environment.
The programme targets architects, planners, designers, engineers, builders, developers, architectural students and members of the public with an interest in the sector.
Energy efficiency takes centre stage
The first two lectures will run back-to-back, allowing attendees to take in both sessions as a paired programme.
Both events will take place in the Seminar Room at Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport.
The first lecture takes place on 30th March 2026 at 6.30pm, focusing on a fabric-first approach to energy and covering Passivhaus and EnerPHit principles.
Dr Rachel Mitchell of GreenBox Associates, described as a foremost consultant in passive energy conservation, will lead the session.
The second lecture follows on Wednesday 15th April 2026 at 6.30pm, when Ed Suckling of Engenius – one of the longest-established renewables specialists in the UK – will speak.
His illustrated talk, titled All About Solar: What Architects Need to Know, will address common misconceptions about solar energy.
Award-winning house opens its doors
A third event takes place on 1st May 2026 at a private house in Cowes that has received national recognition, having been featured in the RIBA Journal.
Architect Gianni Botsford will present selected projects at The Old Byre, Somerton Farm, a triple award-winner at the 2025 RIBA regional and national awards.
Places for this event are strictly limited, with priority given to architects and architectural students. Any Architects or other Built Environment professionals wishing to attend this site visit should contact Mike Guppy directly at [email protected].
Tickets and how to book
Tickets carry a nominal charge of £5 to help offset venue hire and speaker costs.
- Dr Rachel Mitchell of GreenBox Associates: Book now
- Ed Suckling of Engenius: Book now
- Gianni Botsford at The Old Byre: Book now – RIBA members should select the VIP option, with others choosing General Admission.
Building visits planned for June
Alongside the lectures, the branch plans two building visits on the Island in early June 2026.
The first visit will be to the Bear Lookout at the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, a building designed by Island-based practice Modh Design, who provided their services pro bono.
The second visit will be to Department, the new arts centre in Ryde, designed by Turner Works, a project in which Modh Design also played a local role.
Dates and booking details for both visits will follow nearer the time.
Open to all built environment professionals
The branch says it aims to make the events relevant and topical for practitioners and others involved in the built environment on the Isle of Wight.
Practising architects who are not RIBA members, as well as design students across the Island, are welcome to attend.
