22/02/12…Buildings design competition open for business

THE search is on ONCE 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 the work they have done 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.

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, or to prevent progress, but we do believe that new buildings in the Chilterns should fit in with the character and scale of their environment.”

It isn?t just new houses that are eligible for consideration. Industrial and public buildings are also eligible, as are conversions of existing buildings.

Last year two properties were jointly awarded the top prize. One is a restored Victorian model farm near Chorleywood in Herts which houses a business servicing and restoring classic Ferraris. The other is a sympathetically-extended cottage in the hilltop village of Speen near Princes Risborough.

The closing date for entries or nominations is March 1st 2012. 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/fax: 01494 771250, email office@chilternsociety.org.uk

PHOTO: Kingsford Cottage, Speen, Joint winner 2011