Architects scoop awards (From Gazette & Herald)

Architects scoop awards

MALTON-based architects Bramhall Blenkharn, recognised as one of the North's leading practices, has scooped a bevy of top awards.

It was the only practice in Yorkshire to have four schemes shortlisted in this year's prestigious Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Pro

Yorkshire awards - the first time it has entered - at Leeds Town Hall and lifted the top honour in the Community Benefit class for its design of The Children's House, Stallingborough, a Montessori day nursery in north-east Lincolnshire catering for 70 youngsters.

The £550,000 project is built on a working farm. It was also placed second in the National Nursery Design of the Year Aaward.

"In designing the nursery we wanted to recognise the value of children and childhood - children deserve quality environments and experiences," said Ric Blenkharn.

In Ryedale the practice, which occupies impressive historic premises at The Maltings in Castlegate, Malton, is in line for a major award in the Roses Design Awards at Manchester for Sycamore House in Malton, the contemporary housing scheme near the town's hospital which was also nominated for the RICS residential section. It is also in this year's National Urban Splash Awards.

Also nominated for the RICS awards was The Walled Garden Visitor Centre at Scampston Hall, and two eco-homes for Yorkshire Housing at Horsman Avenue, York for design and innovation.

Bramhall Blenkharn is also receiving two awards from Ryedale District Council at the end of October for the design of the Walled Garden and for

Cross House Lodge, the conversion of agricultural buildings in residential accommodation and restaurant at The Star Inn, Harome.

The practice is currently working on a £15 million scheme in Leeds for Yorkshire Housing.

"We currently have about £50 million worth of schemes on our books, mainly in Yorkshire, but also in Newcastle and Leicestershire," said Ric.

Updated: 14:27 Wednesday, October 12, 2005