Celebrating Community-Led Design: Citizens House Wins Best Community Engagement at 2023 Pineapple Awards
We're delighted to announce that Citizens House, London's first purpose-built Community Land Trust (CLT) homes, has won 'Best Community Engagement' at the 2023 Pineapple Awards. This recognition celebrates a project that began as a grassroots campaign by Lewisham Citizens in 2014 and evolved into eleven genuinely affordable homes, priced at 65% of market value.
Our collaborative journey included setting up a temporary on-site architect's office, hosting open workshops, and working closely with a Community Steering Group. Local residents shaped every aspect of the design, from the welcoming 'piazza' that has become a vibrant community space, to the staggered balconies that encourage neighbor interaction.
This award affirms our belief that meaningful community engagement leads to better architecture. The success of Citizens House demonstrates how genuine partnership between architects, communities, and local authorities can create homes that truly serve their residents while fostering lasting social connections.
Thank you to London CLT, Lewisham Citizens, and every community member who contributed to making this pioneering project possible.