Accessed via the covered glazed winter garden within the Mann Island complex, RIBA North sits within the central block.

A red corian spine wall accented with shadow gap detailing and recessed lighting, articulates the project’s volumetric spine, linking the winter garden with the double height entrance lobby and adjoining mezzanine level; creating a visual connection between spaces whilst also defining the kitchen and ordering the vertical circulation.

Within the winter garden, the wall manifests itself as a freestanding totem branded ‘RIBA North’; this functions as a striking piece of signage sculpture, its colour and orthogonal form delivering a dramatic counterpoint to Mann Island’s black aesthetic and the geometry of the two trapezoidal blocks.

Inside, the double height entrance lobby sets the scene, with three carefully crafted compositions: the stairwell to left, courtesy of the carved opening in the spine wall; the café and shop area directly ahead; and the mezzanine level above.

Upstairs the museum standard gallery takes centre stage. A second, smaller gallery - which will also be used for lectures and debates, seating up to 80 people – defines the operation’s east facing side. These two galleries in turn together with the full height atrium and spine wall demarcate a central presentation area which will accommodate a wide range of public facing activities, hence the inclusion of two substantial plasma screen installations set flush in its two long walls flanking a free standing interactive city model.

On the south facing side of the complex an open-plan office, with full height glazing, overlooks Liverpool’s Canning Dock; while on the west facing side, two meetings rooms and a well-sized conference suite enjoy good views of Mann Island’s public realm.