RIBA Journal Editor Hugh Pearman to retire

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) announces that Hugh Pearman will retire as the Editor of The RIBA Journal, the UK’s most widely read architecture magazine, at the end of December 2020. Hugh Pearman joined the journal in September 2006, and is its longest serving post-war Editor, responsible for overseeing 170 issues.

Previously architecture and design critic for The Sunday Times for 30 years (1986–2016), Hugh brought to the journal an authority and deep knowledge of buildings, architects and history as well as a distinct voice.

Under Hugh’s editorship the magazine became digital first, publishing articles online daily and in greater numbers than in print. Hugh has overseen a number of initiatives: the launch of its social media channels; a redesign of the print magazine by designer Matt Willey; the establishment of the Eye Line drawing competition; and the MacEwen Award, recognising architecture for the common good.

Hugh Pearman said:
“Editing The RIBA Journal means nurturing something valuable. It had flourished in the hands of my predecessors including RIBA librarian Bobby Carter in the 1930s and 40s, social activist Malcolm MacEwen in the 1960s, Monica Pidgeon and Peter Murray in the 1970s and 80s, through to Amanda Baillieu, just prior to my stint. I’ve been honoured to be in charge of the journal for 11 per cent of its lifespan since 1893, and fortunate to work with a very talented and stable editorial team.”

RIBA Chief Executive, Alan Vallance, said:
“I would like to extend thanks to Hugh on behalf of the RIBA, staff and our members for developing a magazine that is inspirational and informed. He has steered the ship with passion and his encyclopaedic knowledge of architecture, personality and strong editorial style will be greatly missed.”

In June 2019, Hugh Pearman was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for Services to Architecture. He was made an Honorary Fellow of the RIBA in 2001.

Eleanor Young, who has been Executive Editor since 2006 will lead the editorial team as Acting Editor. Plans are in place to recruit a Contributing Editor.