Shortlisted for Public ºÚ¶´ÉçÇø Project of the Year: This new cafe rises to the challenge of creating a new builiding on this historic site

Chiswick House Cafe, London submitted by Thomas Sinden Contractors

As with the first Palladian buildings in England and the birthplace of the English landscape movement, Chiswick House is a site of huge significance. Consequently any major additions to its estate will inevitably be loaded with symbolism. For some this may have been a constraint but the new Chiswick House Cafe thrives on the challenge. This small, elegant pavilion succeeds where so many have failed by providing a perfect synthesis between classicism and modernity. Its serene stone colonnade coolly recalls the rhythm and spirit of Palladio. Yet there are unmistakably contemporary elements in its detailing, proportions and smooth, efficient lines. In either idiom, the building is defined by incredible grace and simplicity, a superlative yet understated piece of ornamental architecture whose gleaming whitewashed surfaces form a poetic contrast with the lush green landscape that surrounds it.

Project team

Main Contractor: Thomas Sinden Ltd
Architects: Caruso St John Architects
Client: English Heritage
Owner: Chiswick House and Gardens Trust
Project Manager: Mouchel
Quantity Surveyor: Press & Starkey
Structural Engineer: Gifford

Each day in the lead up to the ºÚ¶´ÉçÇø Awards ceremony next month, we will profile one of the finalists in the Project of the Year and Public ºÚ¶´ÉçÇø Project of the Year. The winners will be announced as the ºÚ¶´ÉçÇø Awards ceremony taking place on April 7. To book a table at the ºÚ¶´ÉçÇø Awards visit the .