South London Council Housing Wins Prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize

Lion Green Road, a council-commissioned housing complex in Coulsdon, South London, has been awarded the 2026 RIBA Stirling Prize for architecture. The project, developed by Mary Duggan Architects with RUFFARCHITECTS for Croydon Council, features 157 homes, split equally between privately-owned and socially-rented units, spread across five 13-sided blocks designed to accommodate up to 635 residents.

The complex was designed to integrate with its sloping site, with each block carefully rotated to align with the topography. This approach created a "living landscape" offering views of surrounding parklands and the Surrey Iron Railway. The homes are finished in an earth-toned color palette, with a dual-aspect design to maximize natural light and private balconies. On-site amenities include children's play areas, sensory trails, and residents' allotments aimed at supporting wildlife and fostering community interaction.

Chris Williamson, RIBA President, noted that the housing complex demonstrates how "density can be achieved without compromising the quality" of new constructions. He praised the architects for creating a garden neighborhood that balances privacy, views, and a connection to nature, transforming a challenging site into a distinctive place.

Mary Duggan, representing the architectural team and Croydon Council, stated that Lion Green Road supports a "rich culture of dwelling" by weaving 157 homes into an accessible landscape. She emphasized that the project's transformative value lies in the everyday experience of residents, offering a secure and generous environment that supports privacy, encounter, independence, and belonging.

This year's RIBA Stirling Prize saw competition from several other notable projects, including an expansion to Pembroke College and a new wing for Clare College at the University of Cambridge. Other shortlisted entries included Paddington Square, a shopping and dining complex in west London; BEAM, a multi-functional arts venue in Hertfordshire; and the House at Fairmead, a private villa in Epping Forest.

Last year, the RIBA Stirling Prize was awarded to The Appleby Blue Almshouse, a community-centered retirement complex in Bermondsey. In 2024, the award went to London's Elizabeth Line for its innovative urban transport solution.