Building Awards 2024 shortlists: Architectural Practice of the Year

Earlier this year Building announced all the firms who made it on to the shortlists for our prestigious annual Building Awards.

Now we are shining the spotlight on each category in turn and publishing a selection of the images that impressed the judges.

Today’s shortlist is for Architectural Pracrice of the Year.

BPTW 

BPTW has showcased its excellence in housing design, placemaking and mixed-use development this year. The practice’s notable achievements include the Rochester Riverside project, a 30ha regeneration initiative that integrates commercial and community spaces. Collaborating with Countryside and Hyde, BPTW has expertly managed the detailed and technical design phases. The firm’s innovation is evident in the development of its Countryside Collection house types, which streamline design efficiency and adaptability. BPTW’s commitment to sustainability is highlighted by its Hartopp and Lannoy Point project, which features Passivhaus standards and state-of-the-art technology to reduce carbon emissions. The practice has also shown dedication to stakeholder collaboration and employee development. 

Buckley Gray Yeoman + BGYID  

Buckley Gray Yeoman and its interior design studio BGYID have embodied impactful contributions to urban design over the past year. Completed projects over the past year include SkyLight in Madrid, a net zero carbon building with substantial energy and water savings, and the Ice Factory in London, a renovation transforming an industrial site into vibrant workspaces and retail areas. The practice’s pioneering approach also features prominently in projects such as the Billiards Building in Birmingham, which boasts a wellness hub and flexible workspaces. The firm’s adaptive reuse of buildings and commitment to sustainability, client collaboration and employee development underscore its leadership and excellence in the architectural field. This dedication is evident in its meticulous project execution, forward-thinking design strategies and community engagement. 

ECD Architects 

ECD Architects has demonstrated excellence in architecture and urban design through a number of achievements in the past year. The firm has developed an office in Preston, bridging its London and Glasgow offices, to address the growing demand for sustainable housing, retrofit and cladding remediation in the North. Its commitment to sustainability is evident in the Netherfield estate retrofit project in Milton Keynes, successfully retrofitting 302 homes. ECD’s dedication to innovation includes having 17 certified Passivhaus designers and extensive training for staff. This approach integrates zero carbon expertise, a structured training and development plan, and robust health and safety policies. The firm’s community engagement is highlighted by pro bono projects, charity fundraising and educational initiatives, demonstrating its holistic approach to architectural excellence. 

HLM Architects 

Among HLM Architects’ achievements over the past year are the completion of some innovative and sustainable projects such as the London Institute for Healthcare Engineering at King’s College London and Thames Christian School in Wandsworth. The practice has emphasised research and development, environmental skills training and social impact. HLM’s commitment to sustainability is evident through various accolades, including Passivhaus certifications and substantial carbon emission reductions. The practice has also launched new digital tools like HLM_Place for estate regeneration and maintained strong client and supplier partnerships. Its internal focus on health, safety and social responsibility is matched by initiatives to promote diversity and career development within the industry. These efforts underscore the firm’s dedication to excellence and innovation. 

LOM architecture and design 

Over the past year LOM architecture and design has continued collaborations with long-term clients in various sectors and enhanced its position as a leader in the architectural field, thanks to its innovative and responsive design solutions. The practice has achieved carbon neutral status and embedded sustainability across all projects, retrofitting existing structures to maximise their potential. Its commitment to diversity is evident through initiatives such as its Karla Roman Travel Bursary, an annual travel bursary to give architecture students the opportunity to travel as part of their education or wider studies, and its participation in the Accelerate programme for educational charity Open City. The firm also designed Unity Place, a mixed-use head office in Milton Keynes for Santander UK, and Barn X, a sustainable office for Microsoft located at the Xbox Game Studio Rare’s rural Leicestershire campus.  

Ryder Architecture 

In its 70th year, Ryder Architecture launched Okana, a global built environment consultancy, enhancing its collaborative approach. Projects over the past year have included NETPark, a carbon neutral technology park in Durham, and the National Rehabilitation Centre in Nottingham, recognised for integrating patient rehabilitation with research and education. Ryder also launched a new safety team in response to the Building Safety Act, advising various stakeholders. It achieved carbon neutrality, supported NHS projects towards net zero targets, and expanded the PlanBEE apprenticeship programme. Ryder’s dedication to education and community impact is evident through extensive apprenticeships and fundraising, contributing over £3.4m since 2000. The firm’s client satisfaction also remains high, with innovative, sustainable solutions at the core of its practice, and it has invested significantly in staff development.