We’re delighted to announce that van Heyningen and Haward has been shortlisted in the Radical Retrofit & Reinvention Architect of the Year category at the Building Design Architect of the Year Awards 2026.
This recognition reflects a body of work that has been at the heart of our practice for decades. We believe the future of our built environment lies in the thoughtful adaptation, repair and reinvention of existing buildings—finding new value in what we already have while reducing carbon and preserving the stories embedded within our places.
Our submission showcased projects including the transformation of the Commissioner’s House at Chatham Historic Dockyard, the sensitive adaptation of St Mary’s School, Cambridge, the holistic environmental retrofit of the Kathryn Stevens Rare Books Library at Newnham College, and the award-winning Leicester Cathedral Revealed. Together, they demonstrate the breadth of retrofit—from heritage conservation and environmental upgrade to civic renewal and educational environments.
As members of UK Architects Declare and Architecture Today’s Regenerative Architecture Index (RAI), we’re committed to helping move the profession beyond reducing harm towards regenerative practice. For us, retrofit isn’t simply about retaining buildings; it’s about creating resilient places that continue to serve communities for generations to come.
We’re incredibly proud to be recognised alongside such an outstanding group of practices. Congratulations to everyone shortlisted across this year’s awards—we’re in excellent company and look forward to celebrating with you at the ceremony.
See the BD Architect of the Year Awards website for the full shortlists HERE