The 2023 Regional RIBA Awards proved to be a great success as we picked up THREE Regional RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) awards for the outstanding University of Wolverhampton School of Architecture and the Built Environment (SoABE).
Taking home a Regional RIBA Award, Client of the Year, and Project Architect of the Year we have been honoured for the remarkable achievements of a dedicated team.
Out of nine shortlisted buildings, SoABE stood out for its exceptional design and contribution to the university community. The £45 million project, situated on the site of a Grade II listed former brewery, competed at an international level, making it to the finals of the esteemed Architects Journal Awards in the Building of the Year category.
SoABE not only serves as a significant architectural marvel but also has a profound impact on the university and the surrounding area. It provides an invaluable live case-study for the school’s students, exemplifying the integration of contemporary and historic architecture. Moreover, the project acts as a catalyst for economic and social regeneration, not only within the immediate vicinity but for the entire city.
Having previously received multiple accolades, including the Conservation & Rejuvenation award at the Constructing Excellence Awards and recognition as the best project above £15m by the Pagabo framework provider, SoABE continues to receive well-deserved praise. Its latest achievements at the RIBA Regional Awards further solidify its reputation.
The judges’ comments shed light on the outstanding features of the project. They highlighted how ‘the architects successfully blended the site’s rich heritage with a vision for the future’ commending ‘the commitment of both the client and the architect in reinventing the historic building, creating a dynamic facility that encourages collaborative work’. Furthermore, Project Architect of the Year, Jonathon Dawson-Bowman, was recognised for his ‘passion, knowledge, and in-depth understanding of the project during his presentation to the judges’.
The RIBA Journal said:
“The transformation of the former brewery demonstrates the vision, courage, and commitment of the University and Associated Architects. The project showcases exemplary architectural design that pays tribute to the site’s history and industrial heritage, resulting in a learning facility that seamlessly integrates the past and the present.
The recognition received by Associated Architects and the University of Wolverhampton is a testament to their remarkable achievements and dedication to architectural excellence. With the project now progressing to the national RIBA Awards 2023, the team’s success is poised to continue, and the inspiring work highlighted with these awards will undoubtedly serve as a benchmark for future”.
Richard Perry – Director added:
“We are thrilled and deeply honoured to receive three prestigious RIBA awards for our work on the University of Wolverhampton School of Architecture and the Built Environment. These accolades, including the Regional RIBA Award, Client of the Year, and Project Architect of the Year, acknowledge the extraordinary dedication and talent of our team. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to creating innovative and impactful designs that seamlessly blend heritage and contemporary architecture. We are immensely proud to have contributed to the university community and the city. This triple win is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our clients, consultants, and the entire project team.”
