A purpose-built almshouse development, delivered by JTRE London in partnership with United St Saviour’s Charity, has become the first social housing-led scheme to win the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Stirling Prize.
Located in Bermondsey, Southwark, Appleby Blue is a 57-home scheme for residents aged over 65.
The development was praised by the jury for being “radical and significant” and setting “an ambitious new standard for social housing among older people”.
Designed by architect Witherford Watson Mann, the project aims to combat loneliness and includes communal areas, a roof garden and spaces that integrate with external communities.
Appleby Blue was funded through a section 106 agreement as part of JTRE London’s Triptych Bankside development, which combines homes, workspace, retailers and Art Academy London.
JTRE London is set to deliver a further 64 new almshouses in Southwark by 2030 in partnership with Southwark Charities, as part of its development at 220 Blackfriars.
As with Appleby Blue, the new development will aim to reimagine traditional almshouse living, delivering homes for older residents.
When 220 Blackfriars is complete, JTRE London will be responsible for the delivery of more than half of Southwark’s almshouse provision.
‘More than a design accolade’
Nigel Fleming, managing director of JTRE London, said: “Appleby Blue’s Stirling Prize win is more than a design accolade, it’s a turning point for how we think about housing in London.
“It demonstrates the impact developers can achieve when working hand-in-hand with the public and charity sectors to create homes that deliver genuine social value. And, the timing could not be more significant.
“At a moment when London faces a housing crisis and viability challenges are stalling the delivery of essential affordable homes, this achievement is testament to what can be accomplished through partnership, determination, a clear, socially driven vision and architectural ambition.”
Stephen Witherford, director at Witherford Watson Mann Architects, added: “Working closely and imaginatively with United St Saviour’s Charity, we’ve created an environment that reduces loneliness, encourages connection, and supports a good later life.
“The charity has made social housing aspirational, enabling people to grow old locally with the right support, benefiting both residents and the wider Southwark community.”
View the other projects shortlisted for this year’s RIBA Stirling Prize here.
