Bartlett School of Architecture appoints new Director

Professor Manolopoulou is a Professor of Architecture and Experimental Practice at UCL and has been part of the School for the past 27 years. During that time, she has built a strong international reputation for her dedication to research, design and practice.  

She held the posts of Director of Architectural Research and Design Research at the Bartlett School of Architecture consecutively for 12 years, and she has been Co-Director of Design at the School since 2024.  Professor Manolopoulou is also the founder and lead editor of the School’s groundbreaking Bartlett Design Research Folios series, shaping the community’s design research and extending its international influence.

The Bartlett School of Architecture is one of the most influential and innovative architecture schools in the world. It is part of the UCL Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment which was ranked as the best in the world for Architecture and Built Environment studies by the QS World University Ranking by Subject in 2026.

Professor Manolopoulou said: “This is a tremendous honour, and I am humbled at the opportunity to lead the department that I have been a part of for so long. I am looking forward to collaboration and building shared projects across architecture, practice and research, both within and beyond the school. I am hoping to be able to help shape the next generation of architects and further advance this extraordinary school of architecture that is already a global leader for creativity and innovation for the built environment.”

Professor Manolopoulou is also founder and co-director of AY Architects, a London-based architecture studio recognised for making distinctive and sustainable buildings that address the unique cultural and environmental contexts of their sites. AY Architects has won several awards, including the Stephen Lawrence Prize, two RIBA National Awards, a Camden Design Award and Commendations, and a Civic Trust High Commendation. Beyond her practice awards, Professor Manolopoulou has also been shortlisted for the RIBA President’s Award for Research four times. She is the author of Architectures of Chance (Routledge 2013) and co-author of the Irish Pavilion in the 15th International Architecture Exhibition, organised by La Biennale di Venezia.

Professor Jacqui Glass, Dean of the UCL Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment said: “Professor Yeoryia Manolopoulou will bring a great depth of academic experience to the Bartlett School of Architecture's leadership, alongside a strong understanding of the school’s culture, strengths and ambitions. I am confident that she will enable the school’s community to foster creative autonomy, promote innovation and motivate individuals to thrive, and I’m delighted to congratulate her on this appointment.” 

Professor Manolopoulou will begin the role of Director (Head of Department) at the Bartlett School of Architecture from 1 August 2026. 

Links

• Professor Yeoryia Manolopoulou’s academic profile
• Professor Jacqui Glass’s academic profile
• UCL Bartlett School of Architecture
• UCL Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment

Image

Credit: UCL

Media Contact

Michael Lucibella

E: m.lucibella [at] ucl.ac.uk