In a challenging climate for delivering high-quality affordable housing, we're incredibly proud to announce that Archio has been honoured with RIBA London Awards for both Citizens House and Becontree Avenue. The celebration was made even more special as our client London CLT received the prestigious "Client of the Year" Award.
The recognition is particularly meaningful given the current challenges facing affordable housing delivery.
The RIBA judges highlighted Becontree Avenue as an "exemplar" in the affordable housing sector, noting that in a development climate where creating affordable housing with real architectural character is such a tough challenge, Becontree Avenue stands out. Working in close collaboration with Be First Regeneration Limited, this project demonstrates how thoughtful design can create distinctive, characterful homes that respond to community needs while meeting affordability requirements.
For Citizens House, our collaboration with London CLT resulted in what the judges described as "a refreshing beacon in the neighbourhood." They praised the care taken in the proportions and detailing, including setting balconies in alignment with brick banding, resulting in subtle, harmonious and elegant elevations. The building not only provides badly needed affordable housing but also gives positive, well-designed external space back to the community. This project embodies our belief that regeneration is most effective when it creates not just homes, but community spaces that enhance the surrounding area.
These projects represent years of dedication from an exceptional team. We're grateful to everyone at Archio who contributed to delivering these award-winning schemes: Ione Braddick, Robin Farmer, Tom Budd, Sarah Ahmed, Mike Slade, Eleanor Connolly, Kate Ridgway, and our brilliant associate João Garcia Sá who led both projects through detail design and construction stages.
Our heartfelt thanks also go to our visionary clients at London CLT and Be First Regeneration Limited. Their commitment to quality affordable housing made these achievements possible, with special acknowledgment to Oliver Bulleid, Colm Lacey, Janet Emmanuel, Rupesh Varsani, Michelle Huggins, Ann Frankel, Colin Glen, Calum Green, Hannah Emery-Wright, and Pete Brierley.
We know that high-quality homes are a key component of thriving communities, and we remain committed to working alongside purpose-led clients to create housing that makes a positive difference. These awards reinforce our belief that through thoughtful collaboration, we can continue to deliver exceptional affordable housing even in challenging times.
Citizens House
200 Becontree Avenue
Citizens House Project Team at the RIBA Awards