The findings from RIBA’s Presidential Survey on workplace conditions and staff wellbeing in registered practices reveal some serious concerns. Discover the key insights and hear directly from RIBA President Muyiwa Oki on what needs to change.

Rebuilding the Foundations: Why Workplace Wellbeing Must Be a Priority in Architecture

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has recently released its Workplace and Wellbeing Report, shedding light on the challenging conditions faced by professionals in the architecture industry. The survey, conducted in mid-2024 with over 1,450 participants, reveals that 90% of architectural employees regularly work overtime, with two-thirds doing so without compensation. This culture of overwork, combined with low pay, particularly affects early-career professionals and those with caregiving responsibilities, leading to financial strain and mental health challenges.

RIBA President Muyiwa Oki expressed deep concern over these findings, emphasising the need for systemic change. He highlighted the importance of revising the RIBA Code of Practice to ensure fair employment standards, including fair remuneration and access to flexible working arrangements. Oki stressed that fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment is essential to attract and retain talent from diverse backgrounds.

The Importance of Wellbeing in Architecture

Workplace wellbeing is not just a moral imperative; it's a strategic necessity. Studies have shown that supportive work environments enhance productivity, creativity, and employee retention. In architecture, where innovation and attention to detail are paramount, ensuring the mental and physical health of professionals is crucial. Moreover, promoting wellbeing can lead to more sustainable and human-centred designs, reflecting the values of the profession.

Pathways to Improvement

To address these challenges, several steps can be taken:

• Implementing Fair Compensation: Ensuring that all employees receive fair pay for their work, including overtime compensation, can alleviate financial stress and promote equity.
• Promoting Flexible Work Arrangements: Offering flexible schedules and remote work options can help employees balance professional and personal responsibilities, particularly benefiting those with caregiving duties.
• Fostering Inclusive Work Cultures: Creating environments where all employees feel valued and supported can enhance job satisfaction and reduce turnover.
• Providing Mental Health Support: Access to counselling services, stress management resources, and wellness programs can help address mental health concerns proactively.
• Encouraging Open Dialogue: Facilitating conversations about workload, expectations, and wellbeing can lead to more transparent and responsive organisational practices.

Looking Ahead

The findings of the RIBA Workplace and Wellbeing Report serve as a call to action for the architecture industry. By prioritising employee wellbeing, firms can not only enhance the lives of their staff but also improve the quality and sustainability of their work. As the industry evolves, embracing these changes will be essential to building a more resilient and inclusive future.

As recruitment experts in the architecture industry, we don’t just find candidates for our clients, we offer a full service that includes industry and talent insights, as well as advice to help make the recruitment process go as smoothly as possible. 

For more information and to access the full RIBA Workplace and Wellbeing Report, visit the RIBA website.

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RIBA - RIBA publishes its Workplace and Wellbeing Report and sets plan to improve working culture in architecture practices