The repurposing of a former factory for the Bath Schools of Art and Design at Bath Spa University has beaten a record number of entries to be named overall winner in the 10th anniversary Schüco Excellence Awards.
The project, by architects Grimshaw, in collaboration with specialist contractor Structura, which also took home the awards for best education building and sustainability, was part of the re-purposing of the Farrell/Grimshaw factory for Herman Miller. It was purchased in 2016 by Bath Spa University to house the Bath Schools of Art and Design. The building sits within the World Heritage Site of Bath and was listed Grade II in 2013.
Its modular façade system was refurbished with Schüco curtain walling and doors used to upgrade the building envelope, improving its performance and longevity.
Anna Wendt, awards judge and Partner at Buro Happold, said: “This building was revisited in a way that maximised the existing building structure and main elements of the façade, upgrading it with purpose. It’s a fantastic example for engineers, architects, and designers to review as a case study of circularity.”
Each year the awards feature the People’s Choice award, voted for by attendees on the day. This year that accolade went to the International Rugby Experience. The “Cathedral to Rugby” in Limerick, Ireland, was designed by Níall McLaughlin Architects, working with specialist contractors Alutec Facades and KCC Architectural.
Pete Temprell, Managing Director of Schüco UK and Ireland said: “We were delighted to attract such a diverse, imaginative and accomplished collection of projects to the awards in its 10th year.
“This is a testament to the success of the important partnerships between architects, contractors and our partners. Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to the judges for their careful deliberation, as well as to all those who entered.”
The anniversary event was held on the famous Cutty Sark in Southeast London, preceded by a river cruise along the Thames where guests were greeted by the raising of Tower Bridge. For the fourth successive year, the awards were presented by architectural designer and television presenter, Charlie Luxton.
Held in association with Architecture Today, the event is an established part of the industry awards calendar and this year, attracted its highest number of entries to date.
