Better by design: Shrewsbury Civic Society hails town's buildings at awards
Famous for its Tudor and Georgian architecture, Shrewsbury has a wealth of impressive buildings.
And every two years Shrewsbury Civic Society hosts an awards ceremony to celebrate the very best architecture, planning and design - old and new.
This year, more than 70 nominations were received and judges whittled the entries down to just seven winners which were revealed at an event on Friday at Bear Steps.
Simon Beedles said: “The building awards encapsulate the high level of architecture in Shrewsbury. We want to recognise the people who take the time and trouble to create or refurbish buildings to such an outstanding level.
“Shrewsbury has an awful lot of great buildings so it is difficult for the judges to choose. I think the winners this year are very worthy and deserve the acknowledgement.”
The first winners of the day were Wrekin Whiskies, Wyle Cop, and Adorn Custom Tattoos, Mardol, in the Shop Front category.
Harvey’s of Fish Street and Ten & Six, Mardol, both took home prizes in the Refurbishment category.
Judges praised Ten & Six owner George Maneros for the “high quality renovation” with elegant paintwork which brings out the architectural qualities of the 17th century timber-framed building.
There is also a new 50 Year award for 2018, inspired by the restoration of Bear Steps five decades ago.
“If that work had not been done then Bear Steps would have been demolished - and that’s what the council planned to to,” Mr Beedles added. “It just goes to show that people can make a real difference by taking the time to refurbish a building.”
Lloyd’s Bank on Pride Hill, won the 50 Year new build award, despite being what judges called arguably Shrewsbury’s “brutalist masterpiece”.
Meanwhile, Henry Tudor House, in Barracks Passage, won the 50 Year refurbishment award.
The building has gone through numerous changes and alterations over many centuries. Judges said it has been transformed into one of the town’s most attractive restaurants and cultural venues, and was described as ‘Shrewsbury at it’s best’.
Sarah Honnor and Martin Howard took home the award for the best new build for Howard House in Havelock Road.
Judges said it was an innovative design with an open plan kitchen and has a wall of sliding doors.
