A holiday cottage complex in the Dorset countryside which was converted from dilapidated barns is on a prestigious shortlist to celebrate the UK's best new architecture.
Wraxall Yard, in Lower Wraxall near Maiden Newton, is in the running for the prestigious Stirling Prize from the Royal Institute of British Architects.
It is up against some big competition including The Elizabeth Line in London, the King's Cross Masterplan, the National Portrait Gallery, Chowdhury Walk and Park Hill Phase 2. The winner will be announced live on October 16.
Wraxall Yard, designed by Clementine Blakemore Architects, consists of five accessible holiday cottages converted from dilapidated barns.
The cottages are part of a not-for-profit CiC organisation of the same name run by father and daughter team, Nick and Katie Read.
A spokesperson for Clementine Blakemore said: "The project took four years and was very well-paced. The client was closely involved but didn’t pressure us to deliver within a certain time frame, so we had a proper briefing stage.
"This was my first barn conversion, so a lot of thought went into how much to keep, how to insulate: basic things, but they had principles behind them – being frugal, and building in lean ways with natural materials."
Five cottages are arranged around a landscaped courtyard, reached via curving paths that mitigate the sloping site.
Inside, dozens of details were developed to make attractive yet accessible accommodations, from bathrooms to bump-resistant wainscoting.
The buildings have been sensitively repaired and the site made accessible through clever manipulation of landscaping, avoiding the need for obvious ramps and handrails.
The project is also part of a wider initiative to improve biodiversity and boost the general public’s engagement with wildlife and farming.
Royal Institute of British Architects' President Muyiwa Oki said: “These projects demonstrate the ingenuity and diversity of architecture today.
"Whether raising the bar for social housing, upgrading city transportation or repurposing dilapidated buildings to create heritage-conscious urban and rural developments, each scheme thoughtfully adapts elements of our existing built environment.
"At a time when the need to preserve our planet’s resources is greater than ever, these projects are to be commended for placing regeneration and restoration front and centre, transforming well and lesser-known landmarks to create highly sustainable places for future generations."
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