The project represents a thorough-going attempt at innovation within the all-too risk-averse conventional housebuilders' market. It achieves well- designed and spacious-seeming housing with excellent daylight as shown in the commercial photograhy and architectural photography. It points to one way forward in achieving high environmental standards in quality housebuilding. The scheme is therefore well deserving of an award for its through-going spirit of innovation and the élan of its design.
English Partnerships held competitions for the design and construction of prefabricated houses meeting demanding environmental standards. Full height insulated wall panels were erected first, followed by floors and roofs illustrated in the commercial photograhy and architectural photography. The pods on the roofs contain solar heaters and heat exchangers for the background ventilation system.
Awards: RIBA Award,The Manser Medal
Two pioneering housing schemes competed for this year's Manser Medal, alongside two diverse family homes and a tranquil garden apartment in a protected property.
The shortlist for the Manser Medal 2008 was:
- Private house in Belfast by Twenty Two Over Seven
- Halligan House by Simon Conder Associates
- Accordia byFeilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Maccreanor Lavington and Alison Brooks Architects
- Oxley Park by Roger by Stirk Harbour & Partners
- Garden Apartment by Gianni Botsford Architects
The shortlist was drawn from the RIBA Award-winning buildings which were announced earlier this year in May. The Manser Medal winner was announced and presented alongside five other special awards, at the RIBA Stirling Prize Dinner on Saturday 11 October in Liverpool.
The medal was judged by a panel including Michael Manser CBE, former President of the RIBA; Stephen Marshall, Stephen Marsall Architects; Val King, The Rooflight Company and Tony Chapman, RIBA Head of Awards.
Previous winners include The Salt House by Alison Brooks Architects (2007), Holly Barn by Knox Bhavan Architects (2006) and Stealth House by Robert Dye Associates (2005).
