The winners of the 黑洞社区 Awards were announced at a ceremony last night. Here is more detail about all the winning entries
Nineteen firms and individuals claimed 21 prizes at the 2024 黑洞社区 Awards last night.
More than 1,000 of the industry鈥檚 best and brightest gathered at the Grosvenor House Hotel in central London to celebrate this year鈥檚 winners at the 30th anniversary instalment of the event, which was hosted by comedian Tom Allen.
Want to find out what set the winners apart? Find out by reading what the judges had to say about exactly why each winner claimed their title below.
Architectural Practice of the Year
Ryder Architecture
In its 70th year, Ryder Architecture launched Okana, a global built environment consultancy, enhancing its collaborative approach.
Projects over the past year have included NETPark, a carbon neutral technology park in Durham, and the National Rehabilitation Centre in Nottingham, recognised for integrating patient rehabilitation with research and education. Ryder also launched a new safety team in response to the 黑洞社区 Safety Act, advising various stakeholders.
It achieved carbon neutrality, supported NHS projects towards net zero targets, and expanded the PlanBEE apprenticeship programme. Ryder鈥檚 dedication to education and community impact is evident through extensive apprenticeships and fundraising, contributing over 拢3.4m since 2000. The firm鈥檚 client satisfaction also remains high, with innovative, sustainable solutions at the core of its practice, and it has invested significantly in staff development.
The judges said: "Ryder showed real quality, and a commitment to investing in staff training and career development. It has also invested in sustainability skills, improving knowledge sharing within the business and its services to clients."
黑洞社区 Magazine Project of the Year
UCL Marshgate, entered by Mace Group
UCL Marshgate is the largest building in the first phase of UCL鈥檚 new Stratford campus in east London, designed to foster cross-disciplinary research and innovation.
Delivered by Mace in collaboration with architect Stanton Williams and AKT II as structural engineer, with Arup as MEP engineer, this 35,000m2 facility exemplifies resilience and adaptability, integrating cutting-edge design with sustainability.
The project team employed innovative construction techniques, including BIM 3D modelling and on-site prefabrication, to achieve BREEAM Excellent and a 100% renewable energy supply. Marshgate offers a dynamic, future-proof environment for academic collaboration and public engagement.
The judges said: "This building stands out for its excellent use of materials, sustainability focus, timely and budget-conscious completion, and was developed through early collaboration between the client and architectural team, resulting in a high-quality, sculptural, and refined structure that integrates community and provides a dynamic collaborative environment for UCL staff and students."
黑洞社区's Good Employer of the Year
Ridge and Partners
Highly commended: Plan A
Among Ridge and Partners鈥� business achievements is the transformation of its approach to employee care. In 2023 the firm revamped its HR department into a first-class people team, enhancing employee experience through initiatives such as its career development framework and inclusive leadership workshops.
Ridge鈥檚 commitment to diversity and wellbeing is reflected in new policies and strategic partnerships, while its investment in future talent ensures sustained growth.
These efforts underscore Ridge鈥檚 dedication to fostering a thriving, inclusive work environment.
The judges said: 鈥淩idge has a clear focus on people issues, the consultancy has a particularly strong story to tell which it does so with detailed evidence.鈥�
Construction Client of the Year
Transport for Greater Manchester
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has demonstrated innovative urban development with a 拢1bn pipeline of sustainable transport interventions emphasising its commitment to urban regeneration.
TfGM鈥檚 approach to funding and development showcases a true public-private market partnership. A particular highlight is its 拢140m Stockport Interchange project.
This state-of-the-art transport hub combines public transport, new homes and green space, delivered on time and to budget. A strong commitment to sustainability is evident in the project鈥檚 design, which reduced concrete usage by 2,775 tonnes and eliminated embodied carbon equivalent to over 25 years of operational energy consumption.
TfGM鈥檚 focus on social value is demonstrated through the creation of 175 new jobs and over 850 weeks of apprenticeship and training opportunities.
The judges said: 鈥淎 very strong submission with a feel-good factor around celebrating the social value impacts and community benefits achieved through partnership working.鈥�
Construction Consultant/Surveyor of the Year (fewer than 100 staff)
Keegans
Keegans has continued to make significant progress this year, with a focus on retrofit and fire safety services. In 2023/24, the firm successfully retrofitted over 6,000 homes, enhancing thermal comfort and reducing energy bills for residents.
Notable projects include the Durham Retrofit Programme, Hull City Council Retrofit Programme, and the Netherfield Estate in Milton Keynes.
In fire safety, Keegans trained surveyors through the RICS Level 6 External Wall Systems Assessment Programme. The company has completed more than 170 fire safety projects, showcasing its expertise in the field.
The judges said: 鈥淜eegans has been very responsive to the market, particularly in meeting clients鈥� fire safety needs in residential high-rise properties. Keegans stood out as a trusted name that is proactive and doing important work for the public sector.鈥�
Construction Consultant/Surveyor of the Year (more than 100 staff)
CPC Project Services
CPC Project Services is a leading construction consultancy that has demonstrated its ability to tackle complex challenges and drive project success amid a difficult economic climate.
By leveraging data, technology, and a collaborative approach, the firm has enabled clients to navigate market volatility and deliver critical infrastructure and regeneration projects.
An example of this is its work on the 拢1.3bn Harlow & Gilston Garden Town, delivering 16,000 homes by 2033. CPC鈥檚 expertise spans sectors, from aviation to healthcare, and its focus on sustainability, community engagement, and employee development underscores its holistic commitment to creating positive change.
The judges said: 鈥淐PC had a stand-out approach to market conditions this year, taking on challenges by finding new ways to grow the business and create value for clients. It showed examples of fresh thinking and innovative solutions leading to the company successfully breaking into new sectors. CPC offered a lesson in how to diversify a business and how to embed sustainability into its business operations.鈥�
Contractor of the Year (up to 拢500m)
Reds10
Reds10 is at the forefront of transforming the construction industry by leveraging modern methods of construction (MMC) and digital innovations to deliver high-performing, sustainable spaces that enable people to live, learn and thrive. As a pioneering contractor, Reds10 has redefined building design, construction and operation, positioning itself as a specialist tier-one contractor. The company has been recognised as the highest-performing modular contractor on the Department for Education鈥檚 MMC framework, underscoring its commitment to quality and sustainability.
In the past year, Reds10 has created 225 new jobs, with a focus on diversity and inclusion, employing 12% apprentices or T-level students and 5.3% veterans. The company delivered 33 low carbon smart buildings for clients such as the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Justice, showcasing its expertise in sustainable construction. Notably, the Imjin Barracks project exemplifies Reds10鈥檚 innovative approach, featuring advanced smart building technology and achieving a 95% smart readiness indicator rating.
Reds10鈥檚 confidence and commitment has made significant investments, including 拢5m in its factory to increase production capacity and enhance efficiency. The company is committed to achieving net zero in buildings and operations ahead of 2030, with initiatives like eliminating diesel use on sites and electrifying its fleet. Reds10鈥檚 dedication to social value is evident through its apprenticeship workshops, T-level programmes, and partnerships like the Dual Career Pathway with Hull City Ladies FC, empowering women to pursue careers in both football and construction. Reds10 is also deeply committed to social value, having created millions of pounds in social value through various initiatives including volunteer work, community projects and substantial donations to charity.
The judges said: 鈥淎 major standout. They have a really strong focus on people and social value which really stood out. So many impressive achievements over the last 12 months鈥�
Delivering Social Value Award
VINCI 黑洞社区
New Victoria has transformed an underutilised gateway site in Manchester into a vibrant residential quarter, comprising 520 build-to-rent apartments across two towers. The development prioritised social value and sustainability, injecting 拢50m into Greater Manchester鈥檚 economy through local sourcing.
It created 40 new jobs and employed 550 local people during construction. The project achieved 99.5% waste recycling and implemented innovative water-saving measures.
Significant community benefits included an award-winning pop-up drop-in centre for those in crisis. The team engaged with local businesses, promoted skills and employment, and supported various community groups. New Victoria set new standards for social value commitments in construction projects.
The judges said: 鈥淭he entry was evidence of a clear social value strategy from the beginning of the project, which was seen all the way through, yet was a flexible enough pivot to take advantage of opportunities where these arose. The long-term commitment to improving prospects for the Manchester homeless was also impressive.鈥�
Digital Excellence Award
RLB Digital, RLB & Moda, Digital social value platform
Highly commended: Kier
RLB Digital, RLB and Moda, have developed a Social Value Digital Platform. This innovative solution measures, predicts, and reports social value across construction projects. Using Microsoft Power Platform and Power BI, it provides comprehensive data management and customizable reporting aligned with various social value frameworks.
The platform offers significant time and cost savings, improved decision-making, and enhanced stakeholder engagement.
It鈥檚 designed to be scalable and adaptable across the construction industry, supporting sustainability goals and promoting responsible development practices.
The judges said: "This was a very hard-fought category, however, the winner is using technology to achieve better outcomes in areas where the industry has never succeeded before like social value."
Engineering Consultant of the Year
Cundall
Highly commended: Harley Haddow
Cundall has demonstrated exceptional growth and innovation in the past year, expanding its global presence with new offices in Bengaluru and Riyadh. The firm has delivered pioneering projects such as Eden, New Bailey 鈥� the UK鈥檚 first new-build to achieve a 5.5 NABERS design-reviewed target rating.
Cundall鈥檚 commitment to sustainability is evident in its Zero Carbon Design 2030 initiative and its involvement in writing the Net Zero Carbon 黑洞社区 Standard.
The firm鈥檚 adaptability is showcased through its focus on emerging sectors such as life sciences and retrofit. Cundall鈥檚 dedication to employee development is reflected in its new management and leadership programme and its support for diverse communities within the organisation.
The judges said: 鈥淐undall is a sustainability-led engineer that is investing a lot in research to influence the market. It is going above and beyond with research and involvement in industry groups to drive sustainability in the built environment, which has had a big impact on the sector.鈥��
Housebuilder of the Year
Mount Anvil
Mount Anvil has demonstrated exceptional growth and community engagement over the past year, delivering more than 1,000 homes with 5,000 more in the pipeline. The company aims to build 10,000 homes by 2030, with at least 50% being affordable.
Mount Anvil鈥檚 commitment to sustainability is evident in its achievement of business certification from Planet Mark and development certification for Royal Eden Docks.
The housebuilder鈥檚 focus on health and safety has resulted in a RIDDOR reportable incident rate of 101, significantly below the industry average of 366 per 100,000 employees. Mount Anvil鈥檚 commitment to employee development is reflected in its employer net promoter score (NPS) of 50 and manager NPS of 79.
The company鈥檚 Makers & Mentors programme, in partnership with the Greater London Authority, aims to improve access to housing careers for diverse groups. It also ran 245 community events totalling 500 hours and attended by over 4,000 people in the past year, demonstrating its dedication to resident engagement.
Mount Anvil鈥檚 innovative approach includes an independent resident advisory panel that visits sites twice yearly to assess performance and provide feedback to senior leadership.
The judges said: 鈥淢ount Anvil has impressive and adaptable housing delivery plans while also placing a strong emphasis on community engagement to differentiate the business.鈥�
Housing Project of the Year
Kier Construction, Marylebone Square
Kier has delivered a 拢125m mixed-use development in London鈥檚 W1 postcode, completed in November 2023. The nine-storey building includes 54 super-prime private homes, 25 affordable homes, and commercial spaces.
Features include a five-storey landscaped atrium, prefabricated internal link bridges and a complex terracotta facade.
The project achieved BREEAM Excellent rating and incorporated sustainable solutions such as flywheel energy storage for construction cranes. It represents the first new mixed-use city block in W1 in 50 years.
The judges said: 鈥淭his project was of an extremely high quality, showing elegance and innovation. The team had to deal with the challenges of a constrained urban site, and was praised for the provenance, design use and impact of the materials on the project.鈥�
International Project of the Year
Ritchie*Studio, The Brewhouse and Trident Park, Malta
In this ambitious project in Malta, ritchie*studio transformed a former gravity-fed brewery into a dynamic, interactive destination that seamlessly blends heritage and modernity.
Faced with restrictive height limitations set by the Maltese Planning Authority, the team developed a carefully considered design approach to create a publicly accessible development that respects the site鈥檚 cultural and historic significance.
The project鈥檚 sustainability credentials are highlighted by the implementation of a thermally active building system, a pioneering climate control solution with correct installation and operation ensured.
At Trident Park, the studio鈥檚 innovative architectural design embodies centuries-old local environmental practices, integrating thermal mass, cross-ventilation, shading and large rainwater reservoirs to create workspaces that require no air-conditioning.
The project鈥檚 emphasis on natural light, flexible co-working spaces and sensory courtyard gardens demonstrates ritchie*studio鈥檚 ability to deliver transformative, multi-faceted developments that cater to the diverse needs of the community.
By seamlessly blending heritage, sustainability and contemporary design, this project sets a new benchmark for adaptive reuse and placemaking in Malta.
The judges said: 鈥淭his project meets all criteria with a stunning retrofit of an old brewery into working and leisure spaces, featuring a thermally active building system (TABS) and achieving a 55% reduction in whole life cycle CO2 emissions.鈥�
Major Contractor of the Year (over 拢500m)
Mace Group
Mace Group achieved a record-breaking year in 2023, delivering 45 pioneering projects including Landsec鈥檚 n2 in London鈥檚 Victoria and AstraZeneca鈥檚 Discovery Centre in Cambridge, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and sustainability.
The team implemented cutting-edge techniques, such as low carbon cassettes at Palmerston Court in London鈥檚 Battersea, reducing carbon and increasing efficiency. A dedication to health, safety and wellbeing resulted in a RIDDOR accident frequency rate of 0.036, surpassing industry standards.
Significant investment in R&D reinforced Mace鈥檚 leadership in the construction industry, with advances in digital technology, net zero carbon and modern construction methods.
The company also excelled in fostering strong client relationships, achieving 79% repeat orders and maintaining a positive impact on local communities through social value initiatives, sustainability efforts and community engagement programmes.
Its focus on creating inclusive environments and supporting future leaders has further solidified a reputation as an industry leader committed to excellence and social responsibility.
The judges said: "The Mace Group's submission was very strong. They do things very well. There was real excitement and a real sense of energy."
Manufacturer of the Year
Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions
Highly commended: Arc 黑洞社区 Products
Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions demonstrates commitment to customer service and industry advancement through innovative digital solutions. Its enquiry management system centralises technical support, enhancing response accuracy and traceability.
The company鈥檚 BIMlocker plugin ensures data integrity in design, reducing specification errors. Saint-Gobain鈥檚 sustainability initiatives include adopting the Pallet LOOP for circular pallet reuse and transitioning to HVO-powered vehicles.
It has expanded its distribution capacity and invested in training programmes to address skills shortages. The firm鈥檚 White Book Specification Selector and presence on NBS Source streamlines product selection for specifiers.
Through continuous improvement and innovation, Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions aims to support customers, investing in tools and services to help the industry build more effectively.
The judges said: 鈥淪t Gobain has used digital tools to understand customer needs and provide robust production information. An example for others to follow.鈥�
MMC Award
Imjin Barracks SMART SLA for Army, Reds10
Reds10 delivered a groundbreaking single living accommodation (SLA) project at Imjin Barracks, Gloucestershire, for the British Army.
The three-storey building, constructed using MMC techniques, provides modern, sustainable accommodation for 400 troops from over 20 allied nations.
Utilising 3D volumetric offsite construction, the project was completed in just 14 months, with units arriving on site up to 90% complete. This approach enabled a significantly faster programme delivery, increased security and health and safety measures, and reduced disruption to the active military location.
The SLA incorporates advanced sustainability features, including photovoltaic panels, air-source heat pumps, and nano crystal cell battery technology.
As one of Europe鈥檚 most advanced smart buildings, it achieved over 95% on the Smart Readiness Indicator. Reds10鈥檚 innovative system processes 21,000 data points, optimising the building鈥檚 operational performance and maintenance.
Reds10鈥檚 collaboration with armed forces personnel during the design phase allowed for tangible design changes, tailoring the space to specific needs. The project鈥檚 success has already influenced subsequent projects in the Army SLA Programme, demonstrating Reds10鈥檚 ability to deliver cutting-edge, user-centric solutions that enhance the lived experience of military personnel.
The judges said: 鈥淲hat stood out was the sustainability credentials of the project including interactive controls to help users understand their energy use and drive positive behaviour change. The judges were also impressed by user engagement to refine the product and the quality of the accommodation. Combined with gamification to drive positive behaviour and user engagement to refine the product. Also welcome is the improved social environment for the armed forces.鈥�
Net Zero Award
Greencore Homes, Hook Norton Community Land Trust
Highly commended: Norton Folgate, AKTII
The Hook Norton project in Oxfordshire showcases 12 ultra-low-energy, net zero carbon homes built through collaboration between Greencore Homes, Hook Norton Community Land Trust, Charlie Luxton Design, SNRG and Soha Housing.
The climate-positive homes feature closed timber-frame panels insulated with natural materials, meeting Passive House Institute鈥檚 low-energy building standards. A microgrid solution optimises energy usage from solar panels.
The project prioritises affordability, sustainability and community engagement through innovative financing and design. With a mix of affordable rental and shared-ownership units, the development aims to provide low carbon, healthy living for local people while serving as a model for sustainable residential projects.
The judges said: 鈥淭his scheme showed how to build quality housing with full community engagement and minimal environmental impact. Its promise of homes that 'will be kept affordable in perpetuity' should be an exemplar in a time of huge housing need.鈥�
Retrofit Project of the Year
Quadrum Global, 11 Belgrave Road
Highly commended: Barr Gazetas, Grainhouse
An ambitious retrofit in London鈥檚 Victoria has transformed a tired 1950s structure into a net-zero workplace of the future. The 拢135m redevelopment provides 109,000ft2 of grade A office space, 14,000ft2 of communal areas, and best-in-class amenities.
Half of the site consists of external landscaped areas, a rarity in urban settings. The project extended the building鈥檚 life by over a decade, while retaining 35% of the existing structure. The development also prioritises occupant wellbeing and smart technology integration.
The judges said: 鈥淭his project is a brilliantly designed, well-executed scheme that meets all criteria, with outstanding sustainability credentials, including net zero carbon in design, construction, and operation; the UK's first NABERS UK design-reviewed 5.5 Star rating; BREEAM Outstanding; WELL pre-certified targeting Platinum; and WiredScore and SmartScore Platinum certifications, supported by positive client testimonials.鈥�
Small Project of the Year (up to 拢5m)
Tun House, A'Bear & Ball Architects
Highly commended: Grimes Graves Project, Ramboll
Tun House is a cutting-edge family home designed and built by award-winning architect A鈥橞ear & Ball Architects. The project showcases the practice鈥檚 exceptional expertise in delivering distinctive, energy-efficient dwellings that seamlessly integrate with their rural settings.
Achieving Passivhaus Plus standards, the house features an 8.4kW solar array, battery storage, and an air-source heat pump system, resulting in near-zero energy costs for the homeowners. The design鈥檚 careful consideration of the local context and commitment to sustainability have set a new benchmark for contemporary architecture.
The judges said: 鈥淕iven the highly sensitive location, this manages to reconcile excellent sustainability with good detailing and low build cost for a very liveable and attractive home environment.鈥�
Specialist Contractor of the Year
Mivan
Established in 1971, Mivan is a leading specialist contractor renowned for delivering exceptional results on high-quality, complex construction projects. The company鈥檚 unwavering commitment to client satisfaction is reflected in its strong relationships and track record of success, with customers consistently praising Mivan鈥檚 collaborative approach and attention to detail.
Sustainability is a core focus for the firm, which has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including investing in renewable energy sources and maintaining more than 100 acres of forestry.
The company also places great emphasis on training and development, operating an in-house specialist academy that provides industry-renowned apprenticeship programmes. Mivan鈥檚 sense of social responsibility extends beyond its construction work, as the company actively engages with local communities, supporting charitable initiatives and promoting awareness of construction and the built environment as viable career paths.
The judges said: 鈥淢ivan has really stepped up this year, taking on big, impressive schemes and showing great commercial verve and ambitious growth. It is a great example of a local firm, based in Northern Ireland, that put its people at the heart of its business and is providing training opportunities to the local community.鈥�
CEO of the Year
Dan Labbad, The Crown Estate
Dan Labbad has been the chief executive officer of the Crown Estate since December 2019. The Crown Estate is a unique real estate business with a diverse portfolio that includes much of London鈥檚 West End as well as offshore wind farms and rural land across the UK.
In the year preceding April 2024, Labbad continued to steer the Crown Estate through a period of significant change and opportunity. Under his leadership, the organisation made substantial progress in its commitment to becoming a net zero business by 2030, implementing innovative sustainability practices across its portfolio.
His focus on long-term value creation and sustainable growth has been evident in the Crown Estate鈥檚 strategic investments and partnerships. Labbad鈥檚 efforts to enhance the organisation鈥檚 digital infrastructure and data-driven decision-making processes have positioned the Crown Estate at the forefront of the evolving real estate sector.
Labbad has been instrumental in fostering collaboration with local communities and stakeholders, ensuring that the Crown Estate鈥檚 activities deliver broader societal benefits. His leadership in biodiversity conservation efforts, particularly in marine environments, has garnered recognition from environmental organisations.
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