Brampton home honoured at RIBA North West Regional Awards

The esteemed prize recognises exceptional architecture that enhances and improves people's lives, and has been doing so for the last fifty years.

With its distinctive fusion of local cultural heritage and exceptional architectural design, Langdale earned judges' plaudits.

Particular praise was given to the successful integration of reclaimed red sandstone from the former Brampton Methodist Chapel, built in 1878, into the wall that marked the property's boundaries.

Brampton home nestled into the steep site. (Image: David Barbour)

Mary Arnold-Forster, director of the architectural firm behind the project, said the announcement was 'great news'.  

“It was a joy to work with the clients, Fiona and Simon. 

"There was a fantastic local builder that made life a lot easier.

“I can’t take credit, it’s down to the whole office who worked as a collaborative team. We like to deliver small buildings well.

“It’s nice to house a family in Cumbria. That’s the most important thing," she said. 

The awards were announced at an evening ceremony, and while the Brampton house was an award-winner, the title of RIBA North West Building of the Year 2024 went to Shakespeare North in Prescot. 

Interior shot of Brampton home (Image: David Barbour)

The award-winning Brampton property was lauded for its integration of the local context, with the judges praising the external cladding as 'beautifully and simply detailed'.

RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki, said: “This year’s RIBA award-winning schemes showcase the true value of quality architecture and the positive impact it has on people’s lives.

"While carefully considering the needs of the environment, these truly remarkable places and spaces deliver for communities, for residents, for visitors, and people of all ages up and down the country.

"They are pinnacles of design excellence, and show what can be achieved when architects and clients collaborate successfully.”