The Royal Academy of Music held a topping out ceremony last week for its new theatre and recital hall project, marking the installation of the glazed oculus. The Academy is transforming its old theatre with brand new facilities, designed by Ian Ritchie Architects, which will offer students a practical and versatile performance space and create an inviting audience experience. The rebuilding of the theatre will allow for a 40% increase in seating capacity and includes a state-of-the-art stage, a new balcony and a new 100-seat roof-top Recital Hall.

Jonathan Freeman-Attwood, Principal of the Academy, said: ‘These fantastic new facilities will have a transformational effect on the professional prospects of the world’s most talented young musicians, and the event afforded a brief moment of true anticipation and excitement as we begin to see how this exceedingly complicated project is now thrillingly on the home straight. The expertise, dedication and teamwork to make this happen – across all the parties involved – was reflected in the collective pride of the occasion.’

We are providing cost management services on the scheme within the Grade II listed building, and our challenges have involved major refurbishment work in a functional Academy. Construction work by Osborne began 2015 and the new venues are expected to be open and ready for productions beginning in 2018.