Benni Allan

Profile:

Key points:

• Born and raised in Spain.

• Graduated from UCL’s Bartlett School of Architecture.

• Founded EBBA Architects in 2016.

• Named “One to Watch” by British Design Council in 2015.

• Winner of RIBA Journal’s Rising Stars Award in 2019.

• Co-founder of AORA and A Tavola.

• Lecturer at University of Greenwich.

• Designs span from architecture to furniture and scenography.

Nationality: Spanish-born British architect and designer

Style: Poetic and material-driven

Poetic, material-driven, emotional impact, open-ended architecture

Overview:

Studio Background: Founded in 2016

Founded in 2016 by Benni Allan, EBBA Architects is a London-based studio working at the intersection of architecture, design, and visual arts. The studio produces thoughtful, emotionally resonant spaces and objects across sectors like culture, fashion, housing, and education. It is recognized for its poetic and experimental approach that blends material sensitivity with conceptual depth.

Founders: Benni Allan

Approach, design philosophy: Materiality, light, and spatial experience

The studio follows an investigative approach rooted in materiality, light, and spatial experience. “I believe in doing more with less and the ability to make work that connects with people.” (Source: Surfacemag)

“It all stems from an idea that we have as a practice that you shouldn't be too prescriptive about how spaces should be used.” (Source: Designbuild.nridigital)

Style: Sculptural simplicity

EBBA’s style is marked by sculptural simplicity, refined craftsmanship, and thoughtful material use, often creating emotional atmospheres and calm environments.

Main inspirations: The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia

“I was so taken aback [by the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia], and I remember thinking that it was something I would end up doing.” (Source: Design-milk)

“I am of the opinion that we should live with less, yet what we do own can be both functional and beautiful.” (Source: Propertylistings)

Identity and aesthetics: Focus on simplicity

The identity and aesthetics of Benni Allan are characterized by a focus on simplicity, rhythm, and emotional resonance. His works span the tactile and the conceptual, shaped by an architectural logic that reflects “poetic material qualities.”

Values: Thoughtful design, sustainability, and cultural relevance

The studio values thoughtful design, sustainability, and cultural relevance. “I’m very conscious of our impact on the world as architects and how we need to respond positively.” (Source: Carlhansen)

Creative process

The studio’s creative process is based on “an investigative approach to studying the site and the context.” It emphasizes experimentation and collaboration, aiming for unique spatial and material qualities.

Production and materials

The studio frequently uses solid oak, concrete, and other raw materials. “The pieces are very solid, the geometry really softens them.” (Source: Dezeen)

Production methods

EBBA integrates modern manufacturing with traditional craftsmanship. CNC milling is used for precision, combined with hand-finishing techniques for sculptural furniture.

Main categories

• Furniture

• Installations

• Architectural projects

• Retail spaces

• Exhibition scenography

Notable collections

• Low Collection (2022)

• Silo Collection (2025)

Major projects

• Walmer Yard analysis - London

• La Falda school renovation - Alicante, Spain

• WatchHouse Fenchurch Street - London

• Belsize Lane restoration - London

• ROTARO - Liberty, London

• Stockton bar/café - Deptford, London

• Beyond Fashion exhibition -Hong Kong (2019)

• Elton John and David Furnish “Fragile Beauty” - V&A Museum, London (2025)

Recognition

The designer’s talent was recognized by the British Design Council in 2015 with a “One to Watch” listing and shortlisted for RIBA’s Rising Stars Award in 2017. He later received RIBA Journal’s Rising Stars Award in 2019.

Press/media quotes

• https://propertylistings.ft.com/propertynews/london/7255-architect-benni-allan-on-how-to-use-objects-to-create-a-calming-and-creative-interior.html

• https://design-milk.com/f5-benni-allan-talks-music-his-favorite-recent-exhibitions-more/

• https://www.surfacemag.com/articles/benni-allan-ebba-architects-designer-day/

• https://designbuild.nridigital.com/design_build_review_jun19/rising_stars_an_interview_with_ebba_s_benni_allan

Awards and distinctions

• British Design Council “One to Watch” (2015)

• RIBA Rising Stars shortlist (2017)

• RIBA Journal’s Rising Stars Award (2019)

• Young Architect of the Year (date not specified)

• Dezeen Awards finalist for Low Collection (2022)

• Wallpaper’s “Ground Breakers” and Platform Magazine’s “40 Under 40” (year not specified)

Exhibitions

• Low Collection at Béton Brut (2022)

• Collectible Fair, Brussels (date not specified)

• AORA exhibitions (e.g. A Hurrian Meditation, 2020–2021)

• Beyond Fashion, Hong Kong (2019)

Headquarters and website

Unit 4A Culford House
1-7 Orsman Road
N1 5RA London - United Kingdom

https://eb-ba.co/