A London-based care home designed to combat social isolation, Appleby Blue, has earned prestigious recognition, winning a major architecture award. The unique care home, consciously created to enhance connections between its residents and the broader community, has been named the top new building in the UK.
Appleby Blue is a modern take on the classic almshouse located in Bermondsey, South London. Its innovative design and commitment to community integration won it the esteemed Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Stirling prize. The award was announced on a Thursday night, shining a spotlight on this outstanding example of socially conscious architecture.
The property, featuring 59 apartments with capped rent, a community centre, and rooftop gardens, addresses the dual challenges of loneliness and the lack of affordable elderly housing. Designed by Witherford Watson Mann Architects, the project was commissioned by United St Saviour’s Charity. This nonprofit organization’s mission is to nurture community cohesion and foster connections.
Ingrid Schroder, director of The Architectural Association School of Architecture and chair of the jury, called the project a beacon for a new form of housing. She praised its innovative design as being a transformative solution to both the acute housing shortage and the growing issue of loneliness among the elderly. She highlighted how the design of Appleby Blue actively encourages interaction between residents and the surrounding community.
Appleby Blue, built on a disused care home site, also includes a ground-floor community centre open to non-residents. This centre often hosts young mothers and their children who attend various meetings and classes, including yoga.
Martyn Craddock, chief executive of United St Saviour’s Charity, commended the building’s design for integrating sociability at its core. According to him, people can interact at different levels, from mingling with neighbors in the communal areas to taking part in activities at the community centre.
One of the residents, Rohan, noted the uplifting effects of the property’s design on mental health, praising its beauty. Appleby Blue faced tough competition at the awards, going up against significant contenders such as the refurbished Elizabeth Tower of the Houses of Parliament.
Stephen Witherford, director of Witherford Watson Mann Architects, expressed his honour at the acknowledgement by the RIBA Stirling Prize. He emphasized the transformative power of architecture to create spaces that genuinely enhance lives. Working hand in hand with United St Saviour’s Charity, they aimed to create an environment that reduces loneliness, encourages connection, and supports a good later life.
