Local architects bring a thoughtful re-examination of the vernacular
Overall, architecture appears to be in a healthy state across the region. The judges witnessed the energy produced by true client involvement in the design process – and a natural consequential enthusiasm for the end result.
It was great to see a shortlist of buildings designed by mostly local architects, a list certainly not dominated by the larger London practices. A good many of the buildings we visited demonstrated a thoughtful re-examination of the vernacular and what this becomes when reinterpreted through the filter of contemporary architecture. In these buildings, it was refreshing to see the use of concrete and metal challenge the pervasive regional palette of timber and stone – an interesting response to the not so picturesque, indo-agricultural vernacular context of some parts of the region.
Design Engine Architects for Charterhouse School
McLean Quinlan for private client
Meloy Architects for Meloy Architects
McLean Quinlan for private client
Adam Richards Architects for Adam Richards
Guy Hollaway Architects for Nick Veasey Limited
Tim Ronalds Architects for Sevenoaks School Foundation
Mark Wallinger in collaboration with Studio Octopi for the National Trust