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The enormous nine-story-high former concaster aisles — the large metal crucibles for the molten metal — form a striking entrance to the attraction with a powerful, glowing red wall and ceiling. Red is the theme color running throughout the complex.

The Magna Centre has a rare "wow factor." The sheer vastness of the building takes your breath away. Add to this the vibrancy of the new contents which stand in stark contrast to the building in its previous life.

This combination creates a strangely beautiful experience. It inspires exploration, discovery, and involvement, and not just for children. Britain's first science adventure center has emerged as an architectural adventure in its own right.

Don Barker is a freelance writer and photographer in London, UK, who has lived and worked in Europe, Australia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

Also Honored at the Stirling Awards Ceremony:

The Crown Estate Conservation Award— Dulwich Picture Gallery by Rick Mather Architects.

Gantry cranes still frame space at the Magna Centre. Photo: Morley Von Sternberg The Water Pavilion. Photo: Ben Luxmore The components of the Magna Centre. Image: Wilkinson Eyre Architects Initial architect's sketches of the Air Pavilion. Image: Wilkinson Eyre Architects   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.