Harlow’s unique post-war architecture is to be officially celebrated for the first time, with the launch of a new public competition this month.
Organised by Harlow Civic Society and sponsored by Places for People, the Harlow Architectural Design Awards (HADAs) aim to recognise the very best in residential and non-residential buildings in the town, as well as encouraging excellence in the design of Harlow’s future developments.
The public is being asked to nominate its favourite residential and non-residential buildings in Harlow, before voting on the ultimate winner from a shortlist of entries. An expert panel will then use the results of the public vote to select a winner in each category, to be announced in January 2017.
The winning buildings’ architects will receive a custom-made glass trophy to hold for a year, designed and produced by local artists at Parndon Mill; Harlow’s creative hub. The winning buildings will also receive a commemorative plaque for display.
In future years, the HADAs will celebrate buildings completed in the preceding 12 months. As 2016 sees the launch of the awards however, any building in the new town era (1947 to present) will be considered for this year’s prize.
The original masterplan for Harlow, drawn up by Sir Frederick Gibberd and his team in 1947, included cutting-edge building design from some of the most recognised architects of the post-war era.
As a result, Harlow became a truly novel town; home to the first pedestrian precinct and the first purpose-built health centre in Great Britain, as well as the world’s first modern-style residential tower block at The Lawn.
Paul McLintic, Secretary of Harlow Civic Society, said: “Harlow has a unique design history, built as a new town to rehouse Londoners, following the destruction caused by the Blitz during World War II.
“The Harlow Architectural Design Awards are a chance to celebrate the town’s history of creative design, and encourage new developers to create built spaces that further enhance the town and its unique character.
“I’m sure that everyone in the town has a building with special significance to them; we hope to include as many local people as possible in deciding this year’s winning entries.”
Mary Parsons, Group Director of Placemaking and Regeneration at HADA sponsors Places for People, said: “Good design plays such a vital role in attracting people to a place, as well as influencing the quality of life for people who live and work there.
“Gibberd’s vision for Harlow New Town was truly pioneering and whilst we all accept the town needs growth and investment for the future, we should acknowledge the best of what is here today.
“Through the Architectural Design Awards, the people of Harlow will have a say in what makes their town special, and help ensure that future developments stay true to Harlow’s unique heritage.”