Today the Lecture Hall, Library and Gallery sit among robotic arms, digital prototyping equipment, extensive research archives, audio-visual facilities, workshops, studio spaces and the AA bar, all of which connect with the workshop, fabrication areas and accommodation at Hooke Park. These resources are constantly evolving to reflect the requirements of the highest quality of contemporary architectural education, and the constant interaction between these varied components of the school embodies the intimate and interdisciplinary atmosphere that permeates all of the activities of the AA.
The AA Archives is one of the most extensive architectural archives in the UK and makes available to researchers at all levels a wealth of material relating to the social and intellectual history of architectural education.
The collection includes more than 15,000 drawings, models and posters of students past and present, and more than 300,000 photographs, which itself forms one of the UK’s oldest and most important archives of architectural photography.
Non-members can purchase a two-week Research Pass to access the AA Archives, which also provides reference access to the AA Library.
Digital Access
Digital material is accessible via the Archives Catalogue and Photographic Collections.
The Mark Cousins Lecture Archive includes a set of more than 250 lecture recordings spanning almost the entire career of one of the AA’s most influential architectural educators and critics.
The AA Collections Blog documents the work of the AA Archives and the AA Library, highlighting new acquisitions, events and new writing.
In-Person Access
Members are welcome to visit the AA Archives space during term time operating hours. For those studying a particular topic, it is recommended that an appointment is made at least three business days in advance of a visit.
Outside of term time, access to the AA Archives is by appointment only.