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A’Bear and Ball Architects shortlisted for two OxPropFest Awards

A’Bear & Ball Architects LLP has been shortlisted for Best Architect of the Year at the 2023 OxPropFest Awards! We are honoured to be one of three shortlisted in this category.

Our project Whitehouse Farm in Wantage, Oxfordshire was also shortlisted for Residential Development of the Year – Small Scheme (fewer than 10 units)! The winners will be announced at a black-tie awards evening on 12 September at Keble College, Oxford.

The OxPropFest Awards bring the property and innovation community together from across Oxfordshire and celebrate the value of property throughout the county. The categories are designed to reflect the diversity of the region.

Matthew Battle, managing director of UK Property Forums, said: “It was another big year for the OxProp Awards and this year there were some exceptional developments and exceptional people.

“It seems that people have emerged from the pandemic, determined to do their very best to bring quality to the county. In an unpredictable market we are seeing quality and innovation in so many areas that it makes the future look very positive for our industry.”

Best Architect

With the Best Architect of the Year category, the judges at OxPropFest were looking for practices who can demonstrate a track record of success in Oxfordshire and positive client feedback to back up their success.

In recent years, our work at A’Bear & Ball Architects has gained more and more attention. Throughout 2022, we were shortlisted for an impressive 13 design and business awards.

With an ever-increasing reputation for developing a high-quality contemporary architectural language, we are focused on delivering cost-effective schemes but with architectural flair, whether for a single self-build home or large multi-unit scheme.

And through the development of our ultra-low energy design offering, we’re paving the way for more cost-effective sustainable developments in Oxfordshire. Additionally, we have been leading architecture and design in the self-build industry across the wider region.

Best Residential Development

Having been shortlisted as one of three projects in the Residential Development of the Year – Small Scheme category, Whitehouse Farm is a self-build home located on ‘The Ridgeway’ near Wantage.

The project included a large circa 4,000 sq ft replacement dwelling with outbuildings and equestrian facilities. The home features a:

  • Distinctive contemporary farmhouse design with traditional ‘arts & crafts’ references

  • Sustainable design with future-facing features

  • Design that respects its sensitive rural setting and takes advantage of scenic views

The design of the house has barn references and incorporates glass and a range of materials to create a modern and truly individual style. There are unique features, like a frameless glass bay window and part sedum grass roofs. The design also looks to capture far reaching views and has a low carbon footprint.

If you’d like to take a look at our other award-winning designs, check out our online portfolio! And please get in touch if you’re interested in learning more about how we can help you with your next project.