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Crystal Palace property named House of the Year

Building Narratives Exterior of houseBuilding Narratives
One-off houses, like Six Columns, are "as unique and varied as we are as individuals", judges said

A four-bedroom property in south-east London has been named House of the Year by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Six Columns in Crystal Palace was built by 31/44 Architects on a plot made up of patches of gardens bought from neighbours.

RIBA President Muyiwa Oki, said: "Six Columns is a beautifully crafted family home that cleverly incorporates Brutalist references and creative flourishes while retaining a strong sense of suburban belonging."

It beat Peckham House in south London, Eavesdrop in Sussex and Farmworker's House in Cornwall to the top prize.

Building Narratives Wooden interior of six columns with fireplace and green sofaBuilding Narratives
The living room's thick exposed pine walls that double as shelving units drew praise
Building Narratives Back garden of Six Columns which shows tussocks of grasses planted randomly in gravelled areas. There is also a view into the inside of the house which has large floor to ceiling windows and doors on the ground floor and the first floor of the house with three windows.Building Narratives
RIBA said the designer’s architectural influences included the Barcelona Pavilion

The Hall in Kent and Plas Hendy Stable Block in Monmouthshire were also shortlisted.

He added: "It shows what can be achieved when working with even the tightest of suburban sites, and its flexible, unfinished aesthetic offers a solution to future-proofed design: this is a home that can evolve with its occupants' changing needs over time.

"The generosity of space belies the limitations of this small garden plot."

Building Narratives A view into the living room from a corridor, showing a navy sofa against the far wall, and a partial view of a rocking chair on the right hand side.Building Narratives
The layout makes the most of the wedge-shaped site, according to judges

Je Ahn, House of the Year chair, said: "One-off houses are as unique and varied as we are as individuals, so often producing them needs a closer understanding between the client and architect.

"Six Columns demonstrates an important message that we should all remember: your home is not a static slice of time, but continuously evolves with you."

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