RibaA major entertainment venue, a children’s mental health clinic, a university learning centre and a private home have been named by experts as the north-west of England’s best-designed buildings.
They were recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (Riba) at an awards ceremony on Wednesday.
“The award-winning projects present a diverse example of the positive impact architecture can have on the lives of its users,” said Riba’s Dominic Wilkinson, who is also a principal lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University.
The north-west’s winners will be considered for Riba’s national awards, which will be announced on 10 July. The overall winner for 2025 will receive the Stirling Prize.
RibaMr Wilkinson said the region’s four shortlisted buildings all “illustrate the value for clients and the public in commissioning quality architecture”.
He added: “The winners range from large cultural venues delivering world-class innovative creative programmes to state-of-the-art education facilities training future engineers.
“These projects… demonstrate a positive future for architecture in the region.”
RibaThe Catkin Centre and Sunflower House in Liverpool was recognised by judges for the way it “infused humanity and care in its design”.
The University of Salford’s school of science, engineering and environment building was celebrated for combining specialist workshops and laboratories with flexible social spaces.
Aviva Studios Factory International in Manchester was given an award for rising to the challenge of creating a space that hosts “ambitious and highly original arts events that required an unprecedented adaptability”.
The north-west’s top prize, however, went to Vestige, described by judges as a modest and discreet suburban family home in Wilmslow, Cheshire, “designed with contemporary spaces full of detail and surprise”.
RibaRiba president Muyiwa Oki said: “Our 2025 winners show a deep sensitivity to place and a strong coherence of thought between all teams involved.
“Individually these projects inspire and uplift. Collectively, they remind us that architects do far more than design buildings – they shape the way we live, work and connect.”
The shortlist for the Stirling Prize will be drawn from all of the national award-winning projects.
