A modern take on the traditional Cambridge Victorian terrace built on a bomb damaged plot has landed Inti Construction and Borough Architects this year's prize for best new build at the Greater Cambridge Design and Construction Awards.
The prize homes replaced a run-down industrial site, which itself had sprung up after two terrace homes were pulled down following bombing around the Mill Road area during World War Two.
Inti Construction took the opportunity to build two carefully designed townhouses that would complement a much loved neighbourhood and conservation area, but not mimic, bringing a touch of modern styling and environmental standards that has been well received by local residents.
Located at 51 and 53 Argyle Street, the houses took the top prize for Best New Building in the under £2m construction costs category,
Julian Vargas, founder and managing director of Inti Construction, who commissioned and built the development, believes sensitivity to the area was key in winning the prize.
“It was quite important that the houses sat sympathetically in their setting and that they complemented the street, which is why it ultimately won the award,” said Vargas. “What we built sat really comfortably with its surroundings and improved the street.”
The judging criteria for the awards included the context and the brief for the building, the design solution adopted, the quality and difficulty of the construction and the craftsmanship displayed in the building. Accessibility and the creation of an inclusive environment were also vital considerations.
Each scheme was expected to address environmental concerns, including energy performance. In addition, where possible, the projects were expected to contribute to the natural environment both on the building and in the landscape around the building.
Commenting on Inti Construction's work, the judges at the 2023 awards, said: “This project had a strong design-led approach – including decorative brickwork and sensitive placing and sizing of windows – creating two charming and contemporary new homes from both the exterior and interior perspectives.