AN architecture firm has been handed a national award for the design of a Brighton development.

Shedkm has won the Building of the Year award for their design of Circus Street in Brighton at the Architects’ Journal AJ100 Awards, which took place in London on Wednesday 22.

Inspired by Brighton’s people, culture and creativity, Circus Street is a mixed-use development, regenerating a derelict area which previously housed a fruit and vegetable market. 

Designed by Shedkm for U+I, the residential and commercial buildings are set within a master plan which includes a public realm, events space, green space and landscaping. 

The Argus:

The Circus Street site includes 142 affordable and private homes, 450 student accommodation bedrooms, 30,000 sq. ft of office space and food, drink and retail units.

It also features the city’s first ever purpose-built dance house, which will be run by South East Dance.

The Argus:

Extensive community consultation was undertaken at Circus Street, with more than 100,000 visitors attending worthwhile activities hosted in a disused market building during planning and construction stages over two years. 

Events hosted ranged from sports, education, arts and dance; all of which sought to understand the needs and wants of the local community and wider city to inform design and to build trust between development and community.

The Argus:

The practice also won New Member of the Year and was shortlisted in the Practice of the Year and Community Impact categories, as well as ranking 82nd in the AJ100 rankings.

Shedkm managing director Hazel Rounding said: “We are over the moon at this recognition in our 25th year. 

“As a Liverpool born practice who brought our urban approach to Brighton 10 years ago, the awards are an amazing achievement for the entire team. 

The Argus:

“Circus Street is the project that embodies 10 years of cross-studio culture, individual strength, and key relationships, but fundamentally an understanding of the importance of regenerating cities through public and private investment, bold architecture and the creation of social value and place. 

“We’d like to thank everyone involved over the 25 years for what remains a truly collaborative achievement.”