An Award-Winning Vision in South London by Mary Duggan and Ruff Architects
The Lion Green Road housing project in Coulsdon, South London, showcases a remarkable blend of innovative design and community integration, exemplifying the essence of its architectural style. Designed by the acclaimed Mary Duggan Architects alongside Ruff Architects, this project has been recognized with the RIBA Stirling Prize 2026 by The Royal Institute of British Architects, marking it as the UK’s standout new building of the year.
Reimagining Urban Living with Modern Architecture
Commissioned by Croydon Council, the high-density development features 157 homes spread across five architecturally unified blocks, stitched together with shared green spaces. As a prime example of this architectural approach, it’s only the fourth housing scheme to win since the prize’s 30-year history, following notable predecessors like Goldsmith Street.
Jury members praised the architects’ efforts in addressing the urgency of national housing needs while also ensuring environmental sustainability. “This is a community-oriented development where people bond with both each other and nature,” the jury remarked.
Innovative Architectural Features and Urban Integration
The development’s intricate design features faceted, star-shaped plan forms rotated for individual privacy and panoramic views. This element is a hallmark of this site’s architecture. Each unit benefits from dual-aspect windows maximising natural illumination. Three distinct types of brick marry cohesively across the structures, adding aesthetic vibrancy while fostering community engagement through interconnected outdoor spaces. As part of its modern architecture appeal, the project successfully integrates these elements to enhance urban living.
For those interested in other award-winning architecture, explore how Studio Egret West’s dynamic green spaces transform Battersea Power Station’s final phases.
Chris Williamson, President of RIBA, emphasized the project’s demonstration of achieving high-density housing with architectural excellence. “This is a revolutionary garden neighborhood that strikes a balance between privacy, expansive views, and a connection to nature,” he stated.
A Platform for Architectural Excellence in the UK
The RIBA Stirling Prize annually celebrates the UK’s finest new buildings since 1996. From its six contenders, Lion Green Road, showcasing exemplary design, emerged victorious at a ceremonial event at Old Billingsgate. Other awardees included the visionary Samuel Chisholm Studio and Lorenzo Zandri‘s remarkable photographic contributions.
This year’s winners, including Rowan Court by Satish Jassal Architects and notable accolades like the RIBA Conservation Award, reflect the continually evolving landscape of UK architecture. Historical winners serve as benchmarks, with last year’s win fueling debates on regional favoritism and the evolution of British architectural tastes.
If the blend of innovation and traditional form intrigued you, see how Luigi Rosselli Architects’ Sydney home draws inspiration from stacked books to create architectural marvels.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What project won the 2026 RIBA Stirling Prize?
The Lion Green Road housing project in Coulsdon, South London won the 2026 RIBA Stirling Prize.
Who designed the Lion Green Road housing project?
The Lion Green Road housing project was designed by Mary Duggan Architects alongside Ruff Architects.
Why was the Lion Green Road project praised by the RIBA jury?
The RIBA jury praised the Lion Green Road project for addressing national housing needs while ensuring environmental sustainability and creating a community-oriented development.
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