FANN2025 S H I F T FANN returns in 2025 with an exciting line-up of lectures, exhibitions and walking tours.
The Festival of Architecture in Norwich & Norfolk (FANN2025)
We are excited to announce the return of the Festival of Architecture in Norwich & Norfolk (FANN) with this year’s theme: Shift.
This year, we explore the concept of 'Shift' in its many interpretations - from shifting between cultures and geo-political landscapes to embracing new eras of international relationships, investments in new technology, evolving modes of practice, and hybrid working environments.
Our carefully curated programme invites you to consider how architecture responds to and influences these shifts, as we navigate changing times together. Through a diverse range of events, we'll examine how our built environment adapts to and reflects these transformations.
As always, we'll feature familiar favourites alongside fresh new perspectives that encourage dialogue and inspire creativity. Join us as we collectively explore what 'Shift' means for architecture and our community.
We hope to see you at one of the events below!
Events
OCT
12-16
FANN2025 Exhibition
An exhibition showcasing designs from local architects and architecture students from Norwich University of the Arts.
The Architectural Exhibition is a key feature of the FANN festival, having been part of all of the festivals organised by RIBA Norfolk. This showcase presents work from practicing architects in the region alongside projects from students studying at Norwich University of The Arts.
Free of charge and open to general public.
The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 1TF
October 12th 8am to 11pm
October 13th 8am to 11pm
October 14th 8am to 11pm
October 15th 8am to 11pm
October 16th 8am to 11pm
Would your practice like to exhibit at FANN2025 this year?
OCT
16
OCT
23
Boardman and Skipper Walking Tours
These 2-hour guided walking tours celebrate the architectural legacy of the great Norwich architects Edward Boardman and George Skipper.
Boardman was active in Norwich from 1860 to 1900 and was heavily involved in the development of Victorian Norwich. His work can be seen in hospitals, factories, offices and chapels that demonstrate the confidence and prosperity of the late 19th century city.
George Skipper’s key buildings in Norwich date from 1895 to 1910. Described as Norwich’s Gaudi, by the late Poet Laureate, John Betjeman, Skipper was known for his exuberant style. Enjoy the magnificence of Surrey House, the Art Nouveau gem that is the Royal Arcade, Jarrold’s eye-catching store and more.
Free of charge and open to general public.
Meet at The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 1TF
Thursday 16 October at 6pm
Thursday 23 October at 6pm
The content of both events will be identical, so attending either one is sufficient.
Find out more at Eventbrite:
16 October Tour:
23 October Tour:
TBC
Norwich University of the Arts Building Tour by Hudson Architects and Purcell
More information coming soon.
OCT
13
FANN2025 Talk and Norwich Castle Tour
Monday 13th October
Arrival Time: 2:30pm
Introduction + Talk: 3pm
Castle Tour in groups: 3:45
Tour finishes: 5pm
Maximum tickets: 45 people
NOV
4
Dovehouse Court, Almshouses
Talk by Ian Bramwell of Mole Architects
A talk by Ian Bramwell of Mole Architects about their almshouses project of certified Passivhaus homes for the over 55s. Completed in 2023, Dovehouse Court in Girton, Cambridgeshire, offers a modern reinterpretation of the traditional almshouses. Developed by Girton Town Charity, the scheme delivers 15 new one-bedroom homes for over 55’s with a strong local connection, who can live independently. Winner of a RIBA East award and The Almshouse Assocation’s Innovation for Living award, the project supports independent living and prioritises sustainability in affordable housing.
Tuesday 4th November
6pm for drinks and 6.30pm for an hour talk.
Location TBC and more information coming soon.
NOV
12
NOV
19
Training Charrette by Ensemble
This session focuses on rural placemaking and challenges you to take on the role of architect! Played in a Gamesmaster format, you are given a client, a brief, and a blank field and tasked with creating the most successful new place to live. Using Ensemble’s innovative Charrette™ architecture game, you will create a physical 3D design for a client, and learn to work with a design brief.
Will you succeed in attaining planning permission? How much will you focus on the environment? Will other players want to live there too?!
Session 1 Wednesday 12 November 2025: Starting at 17:30 and ending at 19:30 (16 Places) - Norwich Location TBC
Free of charge and open to general public.
Session 2 Wednesday 19 November 2025 - Starting at 17:30 and ending at 19:30 (16 Places) - Norwich Location TBC
Free of charge and open to students Yr10 to Yr13 and University
12 November Charette:
(For General Public)
19 November Charette:
(For Students)
NOV
13
Design Craftsmenship Awards 2025
The 2025 Design & Craftsmanship Awards is a collaboration between RIBA Norfolk, The Norwich Society, Norwich University of the Arts and for the first time in 2025, The Norfolk Gardens Trust.
The awards are a celebration of projects throughout Norfolk that positively affect our built environment. They are also a means for builders, architects, and communities to be recognised in a wider setting. We hope that through recognition of best practice and exemplary schemes we can have a long lasting and positive impact on the region by shaping future development for the benefit of all.
The awards dinner is at the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts at the University of East Anglia on Thursday 13th November 2025.
Tickets will be for sale from September 2025.
Further information about the awards is on the website:
Norwich and Norfolk Design and Craftsmanship Awards
NOV
27
Annual RIBA Lecture
The Elizabeth Line by Grimshaw Global
More information coming soon.
Free of charge and open to general public.
Norwich University of the Arts, Duke St, Norwich NR3 3AJ
Thursday 27th November 2025: Starting at 17:30 and ending at 21:00
Photograph by Hufton + Crow