Park Hill makes Stirling Prize shortlist

Designed by Mikhail Riches, the second phase of the Sheffield estate’s redevelopment is vying with five other projects to be recognised with the highest accolade in UK architecture.

Earlier this month, the Park Hill project was the only Yorkshire project and one of only two in the North of England to receive a RIBA national award, five projects having been recognised with RIBA Yorkshire awards in May.

Now, the Brutalist estate, redeveloped by Urban Splash over close to 20 years, and working with Places for People over the last 10, is on a shortlist of six contenders for the big one.

The citation for Park Hill read:

“Revitalising a Brutalist landmark: The second phase of an ongoing regeneration of Europe’s largest listed structure which sits on a prominent hillside overlooking Sheffield City Centre. Internal spaces are modernised through open plan designs and the addition of balconies, while thermal imaging has allowed sustainability experts to identify and improve energy efficiency.

“A fresh colour palette referencing the nearby Peak District blends with the estate’s original concrete, preserves its design heritage, while tree and wildflower plantings cleverly soften the exterior.”

The nomination marks the second time Park Hill has been Stirling-shortlisted, with phase one being nominated in 2013

Mark Latham, director at Urban Splash, said: “We are honoured to once again be shortlisted for the UK’s top architectural accolade – a testament to the creativity and design expertise that has been harnessed in the delivery of this phase of Park Hill.”

Mikhail Riches is already a Stirling Prize winner for its work on the Goldsmith Street project in 2019. The practice has subsequently been appointed for the forthcoming next phases of Park Hill’s development.

Annalie Riches of Mikhail Riches said: “We are thrilled that Park Hill Phase 2 has been selected for inclusion in the Stirling Prize shortlist. It has been a privilege to have been part of the continuing story of Park Hill and a joy to see a community grow there. Hopefully this project can make a case for the reuse of buildings of this era.”

The retrofit phase recognised saw 195 new flats and townhouses for private sale and rent created, retaining much of the existing fabric with upgrades to high thermal and acoustic standards.

Other placemaking-focused renovations have included a central residents’ garden as well as commercial space which now hosts businesses including South Street Kitchen, Nest, The Pearl pub and the Grace Owen Nursery.

Latham concluded: “Park Hill has a unique presence on the Sheffield skyline, an iconic history, and an emotional connection to the people of Sheffield. That is why it has been so important for the team to ensure that the character of Park Hill has been retained, whilst elevating it back to a positive and prominent position within Sheffield’s thriving community. We are delighted that has been recognised by RIBA and the judges.”

Also in contention:

• Wraxall Yard, Dorset by Clementine Blakemore Architects
• Chowdry Walk, London by Al-Jawad Pike
• The Elizabeth Line, London Underground by Grimshaw, Maynard, Equation and Atkins
• King’s Cross masterplan, London by Allies & Morrison and Porphyrios Associates
• National Portrait Gallery, London by Jamie Fobert Architects and Purcell.

RIBA president Muyiwa Oki said: “These projects demonstrate the ingenuity and diversity of architecture today. From major national infrastructure to brave and brilliant council-led housing, these varied schemes are united in making sensitive contributions to elevating everyday life.

“Whether raising the bar for social housing, upgrading city transportation or repurposing dilapidated buildings to create heritage-conscious urban and rural developments, each scheme thoughtfully adapts elements of our existing built environment.”

Amy Bunszel, executive vice-president of architecture, engineering, and construction solutions at programme sponsor Autodesk, said:

“Congratulations to the 2024 RIBA Stirling Prize shortlist winners, whose projects illustrate how design brings local communities together. The architecture industry has an important role in solving the big challenges we face; to house and support growing populations with a built environment that is more resilient and sustainable.

“The shortlist winners are inspiring examples of how architects can design and make a more inclusive future for our homes, workplaces, and communities.”

The winner of the 2024 RIBA Stirling Prize will be announced at London’s Roundhouse on 16 October 2024.