Three Merseyside buildings are in the running for a national RIBA award, showcasing architectural excellence.
Regional judges will visit all shortlisted projects. They will announce the winners later this spring season. Winning projects could receive national RIBA awards, including the Sustainability Award and Building of the Year. Winners may even get a RIBA National Award, with the announcement occurring this summer.
Dominic Wilkinson, who chairs the RIBA North West jury and teaches lectures at Liverpool John Moores University, said that this year shows architectural ambition. He added that the collection of projects represents many scales and that these buildings offer the community hope.
The projects work to minimize carbon footprints and reduce environmental impact. Architecture plays a positive role for society thanks to this. These projects show responsibility to their clients.
The Municipal Hotel opened in April 2023. It was Liverpool City Council’s former home. Falconer Chester Hall Architects worked with Fragrance Group, Russell WBHO, and consultants. Their work transformed the building, which dates to 1868, into a four-star hotel.
Cullinan Studio and 10architect designed Alder Hey’s centers, the Catkin Centre and Sunflower House. The buildings house several outpatient clinics. They are located on the Alder Hey site itself.
ShedKm designed the Lighthouse Church in Heswall, which opened during October of 2023. Architects hoped to create a Christian presence and give Heswall a stronger community.
The glass invites people inside the building and forms a link to the street and town. This supports the church’s welcoming spirit. The church hosts events for everyone, including concerts, playgroups, and activities, and also offers support services.
The RIBA Stirling Prize recognizes the UK’s best new building. The shortlist draws from RIBA National Award winners. This shortlist will get announced in September, and the Stirling Prize winner will be announced in October.
Other shortlisted projects exist in the North West, including Aviva Studios by OMA, Langdale Chase Hotel, and the Salford University building. Vestige by Smith Young Architects is another entry.