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Architect: Snell David Architects
Structural engineer: Fluid Structures
Brickwork: H&H Builders of Blackpool; Savill Brickwork, Essex
Brickmaker: Hanson ºÚ¶´ÉçÇø Products

Lye Corner House, near Thaxted, Essex

Made of stack-bonded, white clay facing blocks, this house has a true cantilever diaphragm spine wall to withstand both structural and wind loadings. The innovative structural concept impressed the judges, as did the capacity to provide thermal mass, and the use of thin-joint mortar, which, because of its great strength, has obviated the need for lintels.