The very best of York’s architecture and design was in the spotlight this week as four leading architects spent two days assessing the entries for the 2015 York Design Awards.
The judges toured the city to view first-hand more than 25 entries for this year’s awards which are now into their ninth year. The judging panel, led by renowned architect Julian Bicknell, who specialises in architecture that combines modern design with historical context, was impressed by the standard of buildings on show this year.
“York has a tremendous reputation nationally and internationally, with the quality of its architecture and interest in its landmark buildings often at the heart of what attracts people to the city,” said Mr Bicknell. “2015’s York Design Awards entries are continuing that great heritage, with high quality design and craftsmanship coming to the fore. Once again we have a tough challenge ahead in choosing the projects that stand out from an excellent shortlist, but it’s a privilege to be involved and work alongside fellow judges of such high calibre.”
Julian Bicknell’s co-judges are eminent architects in their respective fields, each representing aspects of York’s architectural mix. They are Leeds architect and chair of the Construction Industry Council Yorkshire and Humber, Stefanie Stead; chairman of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, David Heath; and Geoff Rich, a managing partner at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, one of the leading contemporary architecture practices in the UK.
Janet Hopton, who chairs the York Design Awards steering group, said: “It is crucial that we celebrate and encourage first-rate design in the city. Good architecture and sensitive building restoration play an important part in what makes York such a special place. By showcasing current excellence we hope to support this ethos in the future, as well as encourage the designers of new developments in the city to maintain the very highest standards – to create buildings and spaces that ‘delight’.
“We are once again extremely grateful to our sponsors, without whom the city’s architecture would not get the recognition it deserves. They include Hiscox, David Wilson Homes, Arup and The Shepherd Group, plus organisations such as York Civic Trust, City of York Council, Janet O`Neill Associates, York Conservation Trust and the York Guild of Building.
Picture shows:
(L-R) The York Design Awards judges on their recent tour of 2015 award entries. David Heath, chairman of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings; Leeds architect and chair of the Construction Industry Council Yorkshire and Humber, Stefanie Stead; Julian Bicknell, a renowned architect who specialises in architecture that combines modern design with historical context, and chair of the judging panel; and Geoff Rich, a managing partner at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios.
