Design competition open for business

THE search is on again for the best new and restored buildings in the Chilterns.

The annual Chilterns Buildings Design Awards competition is seeking entries from home-owners, architects and developers who are proud of what they have built in the Chilterns. The Awards are offered by the Chilterns Conservation Board and the Chiltern Society, two organisations dedicated to safeguarding what’s best in the Chilterns, one of the most outstanding areas of countryside in England, and to encouraging high standards for new development.

Lower Farm, Church Lane, Britwell Salome, Owners and architects – Mr. and Mrs. Paul and Fiona Sargeantson; Builder – Paul Sargeantson, Britwell Salome; Awarded for – The construction of a very worthy building which sits calmly and comfortably within the context of the overall farmyard

Last year one of the award winners was a new barn at Lower Farm in Britwell Salome near Wallingford.

Colin White, Planning Officer at the Conservation Board, said: “We want to encourage better building design, and to encourage architects and developers to use traditional, local materials and designs in their work. We are not trying to turn back the clock, but we do believe that new buildings in the Chilterns should fit in with the beautiful countryside that’s around them.”

It isn’t just new houses that are eligible for consideration. Industrial and public buildings are also eligible, as are restorations and conversions of existing buildings.

The closing date for entries or nominations is March 1, 2015. Application forms and further information are available from the Conservation Board office (01844 355500), email: office@chilternsaonb.org) or from the Chiltern Society, White Hill Centre, Chesham (tel: 01494 771250, email office@chilternsociety.org.uk).