Best Commercial Building

Paternoster House, London EC4

Architect Sidell Gibson Partnership
Bricks Ibstock Swanage purpose-made blends
Brickwork contractor Bishop Developments

Located to the north of St Paul’s Cathedral, the use of a Roman-style brick for Paternoster House was derived from an existing structure. The building has a flat facade that is enlivened with an interesting rhythm of fenestration that creates an almost timeless effect. The architect used combinations of bonding patterns to add texture as well as recessing and extending courses to create shadows, thereby confirming their faith in brick as the ideal medium for creating interest.

The judges thought this was a splendid approach to a difficult brief and the result is a stunning building. The use of structural brickwork to great effect was also noted. Slim proportioned Ibstock Swanage purpose-made bricks are laid with a flush mortar joint that is characterised by a remarkable consistency of colour throughout. The whole effect of bond patterns and recessed and projecting string courses enhance the building’s overall appeal.

Runners-up

St Martin’s Court, London

Architect Allies and Morrison
Bricks Charnwood Forest
Brickwork contractor Irvine Whitlock

Dorothy Hodgkin Building, Bristol University

Architect Kendall Kingscott
Bricks Ibstock
Brickwork contractor Cowlin Construction

IDP offices and flats, Glasgow

Architect IDP Partnership
Bricks Ibstock
Brickwork contractor Loch Park Builders

Sainsbury’s Local, Birmingham

Architect Sidell Gibson Partnership
Bricks Hanson
Brickwork contractor HBG Construction Southern