Six projects by early-career architects shortlisted for 2024 Stephen Lawrence Prize

The shortlist for this year’s Stephen Lawrence Prize was revealed today by the Royal Institute of British Architects. Six projects that elicited a "fusion of social purpose and restorative design" made the cut for the Prize’s 26th edition. 

Each project architect earned their qualifications within the past five years in line with a now two-year-old mandate aimed at celebrating early-career architects. A winner will be announced on October 16th at the RIBA Stirling Prize ceremony in London. (Two projects — Chowdhury Walk and Wraxall Yard — were also included in the 2024 Stirling shortlist.)

"It’s inspiring to see that each shortlisted project places social value and community at its core," RIBA President Muyiwa Oki remarked on the finalists. "From retrofits that radically transform accessibility to a refuge for homeless people, each project is a testament to a thoughtful and engaged cohort of architects and I’m delighted to see them taking the lead as true agents of change."

The six shortlisted projects for the 2024 Prize are:

Bluebird by SKArchitects in Southend-on-Sea
Project Architect: Danielle Simpson

RIBA description: "A housing scheme providing joy, dignity, and community. 50 rooms for homeless people, together with communal facilities, offer a step towards independent living."

Chowdhury Walk by Al-Jawad Pike in London
Project Architect: Filippo Antonucci 

RIBA description: "A sculptural infill development heralding the beginnings of an ambitious programme of new generation council housing by Hackney Council."

The Little Big House by Knox Bhavan in Hertfordshire
Project Architect: Fergus Knox

RIBA description: " An accessible private oasis delightfully balancing the need for practical storage of medical equipment and live-in care with a warm, homely character."

Plas Glyn-y-Weddw Arts Centre café by Mark Wray Architects in north-west Wales
Project Architect: Sebastian Walker

RIBA description: "A sensitive intervention of a marine-inspired café provides a striking and inspired contrast to the adjacent listed structure."

Southwark House by VATRAA in London
Project Architect: Anamaria Pircu

RIBA description: "A home of distinct character and warmth, this transformed 76 square metre former council house offers lessons in environmental and spatial reinvention."

Wraxall Yard by Clementine Blakemore Architects in Dorset
Project Architect: Clementine Blakemore

RIBA description: "A breath of fresh air in the field of accommodation for people with disabilities. This disused Dorset dairy farm has been transformed into a community space, accommodation, and educational smallholding."