The RIBA Stirling Prize 2023 for the UK’s best building has been awarded to the John Morden Centre by Mæ, a retirement day centre in Blackheath, London.
RIBA President Muyiwa Oki commented “Loneliness and isolation are critical issues, particularly for older people. The John Morden Centre’s elegance and efficacy sets a high standard for spaces that support healthier, happier and more independent lives.
It illustrates the positive potential of architecture to strengthen vibrant and active communities. This is a skilfully designed package that minimises the building’s impact on our planet’s delicate ecology, while also harnessing the therapeutic value of the surrounding nature. It stands as a testament to the vision and ambition of Morden College, Mæ’s creativity – and the exemplary collaboration between them.”
Six buildings were shortlisted for the RIBA 2023 Stirling Prize.
Other awards on the day include Houlton School in Warwickshire by van Heyningen & Haward Architects’ (vHH) which won the inaugural RIBA Reinvention Award 2023. Lighthouse Children’s Home in London by Conrad Koslowsky Architects won the Stephen Lawrence Prize 2023. A House for Artists in London by Apparata Architects won the Neave Brown Award for Housing 2023. Onion Collective won the Client of the Year 2023 award for East Quay in Somerset by Invisible Studio and Ellis Williams Architects. Photo by Jim Stephenson. RIBA Stirling Prize
