South London Housing Complex Wins Prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize

A south London council housing complex, known as Lion Green Road, has been awarded the 2026 RIBA Stirling Prize for architecture. The development, located in Coulsdon, South London, was commissioned by Croydon Council and designed by Mary Duggan Architects with RUFFARCHITECTS.

A 'Living Landscape'

The complex comprises 157 homes, equally divided between privately-owned and socially-rented units, housed within five distinctive 13-sided blocks. These blocks can accommodate up to 635 residents. Despite being built on a sloping site with an eight-meter elevation change, each block is carefully positioned and rotated to follow the site's topography. This arrangement creates a new 'living landscape,' offering residents views of surrounding parklands and the historic Surrey Iron Railway. The homes feature an earth-toned color palette designed to harmonize with the natural environment, with each unit offering private balconies and a 'dual-aspect' design to maximize natural light.

Community and Sustainability Focus

Beyond the residential units, Lion Green Road incorporates amenities aimed at fostering community and supporting wildlife. These include children's play areas, sensory trails, and residents' allotments. RIBA Stirling Prize Jury member Chris Williamson, also RIBA President, highlighted the project's success in achieving density without compromising quality. He noted that the architects managed to create a 'new kind of garden neighbourhood' that balances privacy and views with a strong connection to nature.

Mary Duggan, representing the architects, emphasized that the project demonstrates how architectural ambition, social value, and generosity can coexist within contemporary development realities. She stated that the design transforms a challenging suburban site into homes woven through an accessible landscape, utilizing topography and shared spaces to support a culture of dwelling. The focus is on the everyday experience of living in a secure and generous environment, fostering independence and belonging.

Competition and Prize History

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

The RIBA Stirling Prize, first awarded in 1996, evaluates entries on design vision, innovation, originality, occupant engagement, accessibility, sustainability, suitability for purpose, and client satisfaction. Last year's prize was awarded to The Appleby Blue Almshouse, a community-centered design for later living in Bermondsey, London. In 2024, the Elizabeth Line train network received the award for its urban transport solution.