"Presented annually by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) since 1996, the prize recognizes the UK's best new building, celebrating architectural excellence, innovation, and social impact. This marks the second Stirling Prize win for Witherford Watson Mann Architects, following their 2013 recognition for Astley Castle, and continues their trajectory as a practice that engages deeply with social and cultural contexts."
"Located on a busy London high street, Appleby Blue Almshouse replaces a former care home and reimagines the centuries-old almshouse model for contemporary needs. The development comprises 59 light-filled apartments arranged around a central courtyard garden, placing communal space at the heart of the project. Designed to foster community and reduce social isolation among people over 65, the scheme responds to both the UK's housing shortage and the growing loneliness epidemic among older populations."
"At street level, floor-to-ceiling bay windows and sightlines to the nearby bus stop create a strong connection between residents and the surrounding neighborhood. Public programming, along with timber-clad communal rooms and a shared kitchen, reinforces the building's role as an anchor for both its residents and the wider community. Developed through a close collaboration between Witherford Watson Mann Architects and United St Saviour's Charity, the project integrates wellbeing, care, and dignity into every aspect of its design."
Appleby Blue Almshouse by Witherford Watson Mann Architects won the RIBA Stirling Prize 2025. The project delivers 59 light-filled apartments for people over 65 arranged around a central courtyard garden that centers communal life. The scheme replaces a former care home on a busy London high street and reimagines the almshouse model to address housing shortages and loneliness among older populations. Street-level bay windows and sightlines to public transport connect residents to the neighborhood. Timber-clad communal rooms, a shared kitchen, and public programming strengthen social ties. The project was developed with United St Saviour's Charity to integrate wellbeing, care, and dignity.
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