Department for Culture Media and Sport

architecture and design

We are responsible for the quality of architectural design in this country. There are compelling cultural, social, economic and environmental arguments for good design in the built environment.

Good design can radically affect commercial productivity, public service delivery, and how people feel about their quality of life. It can improve the environmental performance of buildings and places and promote sustainable ways of living.

We raise awareness about the importance of good architectural design in defining our environment, and encourage high standards of design quality in building projects. Parks and open spaces, and the overall quality of places are as important to us as bricks and mortar.

  • Better public buildings initiative 
    How good design can revitalise neighbourhoods and cities, reduce crime, illness and truancy, and help public services perform better.

  • Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment
    CABE works directly with architects, planners, designers, developers and clients, offering them guidance on projects that will shape lives.

  • Education
    We are committed to developing young people's awareness of architecture and the built environment, nurturing future generations to demand better buildings, spaces and places

  • Engaging Places
    is an exciting new initiative to unlock the educational potential of the historic and contemporary built environment.

If you are looking for information on listing buildings of historic or architectural interest, please visit the "listing" pages of the "historic environment" section of this site

Back to top