Architectural practice of the year

Winner
Marks Barfield Architects
The judges' decision rewarded the entrepreneurial spirit, vision and commitment that transformed the London Eye from a bright idea into a new landmark for the capital. The practice steered the project through planning negotiations, sought commercial sponsorship, then used it to demonstrate exemplary partnerships with the engineers and suppliers. The Eye has contributed to a reawakening of Londoners' interest in the built environment, while its position on the South Bank is helping to catalyse Thames-side regeneration. Marks Barfield has not neglected other practice issues over the past year: it has commissioned a client satisfaction survey, has a stated commitment to sustainable development and incorporates best practice on energy efficiency in all its projects.

Second
Feilden Clegg Bradley Architects
The practice has flourished since a wide-ranging review in 1999 led to the appointment of a third senior partner, Keith Bradley, the establishment of a staff profit-share scheme and a move to new, larger London offices. The firm has maintained its traditional strengths in environmental design and the education sector: it has enthusiastically adopted the priciples of partnering and now believes in sharing its expertise through the Movement for Innovation.

Third
Richard Rogers Partnership
Richard Rogers Partnership has managed to combine world-class designs with an exemplary commitment to sustainable architecture and innovation in procurement. The practice sets standards on energy issues, using buildings' design and materials to minimise environmental impact. At 88 Wood Street it designed an innovative triple-glazed facade and its design for the Millennium Dome emerged as the first British design icon of the 21st century.

Fourth
Gensler
The 309 staff in the London office of this international firm achieved an impressive fee income of £19.5m in 1999-2000. An 85% repeat business level helped: continuity means that clients always work with architects they know, who in turn understand their business. The firm has introduced a sustainability taskforce that aims to put social and environmental responsibility at the core of the practice's work.