A striking Bracknell development has scooped the top prize in the latest industry awards celebrating architecture and design.

Rising above the centre of Bracknell town, Royal Winchester House was designed by renowned modernist architecture practice, SOM Architects – best known for crafting the first modernist office building in New York City.

Judges highlighted the building’s exceptional design, unique aspects, and well-configured living spaces as key reasons behind Royal Winchester House’s success at this year’s What House Awards.

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These awards recognise the best Build-to-Rent developments in the UK where the Bracknell tower was awarded bronze in the Best Build-to-Rent Project category.

Brian Comer, Chairman and Co-Founder of Comer Homes, said: “Royal Winchester House has played a major part in the regeneration of Bracknell town centre, so I’m delighted to see the project honoured at the What House Awards.

“The design had to be unique and modern but fit in with the new vision of the area, which is why we appointed architects that helped shape certain parts of New York, to help deliver a building the town could be proud of.”

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Royal Winchester House replaced the former 3M office block which was said to be a ‘crumbling eyesore’.

This development was part of the town centre’s first stage of the regeneration project with the purpose of transforming the Bracknell skyline.

The contemporary design of the building’s nine angled blocks ranging from 10 to 19 stories, provied a visual landmark, and accommodates an additional 338 apartments – 193 two-bedroom and 145 one-bedroom homes to the town centre.

The architectural design of the interiors, developed by Frank Shaw and Associates, creates a variety of open-plan, modern layouts to suit different needs, making the most of the available space and natural light, including the inclusion of full-height floor-to-ceiling windows.

The ceremony was hosted by former Leader of the Conservative Party William Hague, England Rugby World Cup winner and broadcaster Maggie Alphonsi. 

Winners were decided by a panel of expert judges, who carried out a rigorous assessment, including in person site visits.