Architects pick up top property Oscar

May 13 2008 by Sue Scott, Evening Gazette

A FIRM of architects is celebrating after winning a prize at the prestigious Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) awards ceremony.

Stokesley-based DKS Architects picked up an honour in the commercial category at the fifth annual North-east “property Oscars” event for the design of its client Armstrong Richardsons’ offices based in Stokesley.

DKS fought off competition from some of the region’s top architectural practices to win an award in one of the event’s toughest categories. The winning project was completed in conjunction with building company, Hall Construction.

Delighted Mark Barlow, partner and architect at DKS Architects, said: “To be shortlisted for any RICS award is a wonderful honour, but to win a prize is a truly fantastic achievement.

“The award win reflects the hard work and creativity of everyone at DKS. All the partners are extremely proud and hope it gives the whole team a taster for success that will give confidence to go for even more ambitious projects.”

The firm provides architectural, planning and interior design services across a number of sectors including commercial, public sector and residential.

The RICS North East Renaissance Awards are designed to reward the developments that have made the most impact on the region in the past three years.

Darlington architectural firm, Browne Smith Baker (BSB) and Stockton-based Endeavour Housing Association are also celebrating after winning an award for a flagship project that has helped to transform a community in the region.

Triumphant BSB picked up the regional Community Benefit award for the innovative Aspen Gardens extra care scheme, in Hardwick, Stockton.

Last year BSB was honoured with the same award for the development of the £1.35m St Martin’s Centre, in Byker, Newcastle – proving the firm’s importance in regenerating North-east communities.

Malcolm Robinson, design director at BSB and architect behind the Aspen Gardens development, said: “With this scheme we wanted to provide state-of-the-art living, which was still homely for the elderly communities, while providing the best possible facilities and environment.”

Aspen Gardens’ services and facilities manager Charis Gracie said: “The building is a fine piece of architecture but at its foundation are the local people and community that keep it running from day-to-day.”

Aspen Gardens beat five other hopefuls in the same regional category and was also nominated in the category for Regeneration. In total BSB was short-listed for two developments in four categories.

The £12.5m Byron Place retail development at Foundry Road, in Seaham, was short-listed for two awards; in the Regeneration category and in Commercial.