This South London Housing Complex Built To Tackle Loneliness Has Just Won A Major Architecture Prize

Appleby Blue Almshouse was built to house over-65's and features a courtyard, floor-to-celing windows and a roof garden

Kim Bansi • 17 October, 2025

A building with many windows in a U-shape around a courtyard filled with trees — Credit: Philip Vile, RIBA

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When we think of a home for the elderly, we might think of hospital-like corridors and cold lighting, yet Appleby Blue Almshouse is far from that picture. In fact, it resembles an oasis in the heart of the city, which is why it has won the Royal Institute of Architects (RIBA) Sterling Prize, a prestigious architecture award.

Situated in Southwark, this social housing complex for those over 65, treats the mental and physical wellbeing of its residents as a top priority.

A closer look at the building

An older man with a walking stick walks amongst planters on a rooftop garden — Credit: Philip Vile, RIBA

Made up of 59 bright and spacious flats designed in a U-shape around a courtyard filled with ginkgo trees and a water feature, the design of the building aims to create a connection to nature, even in the hustle and bustle of the city. Designed by architects Witherford Watson Mann, the five-storey block also features floor-to-ceiling windows to give a sense of connection between the residents and the outside community.

The roof garden is also another gorgeous feature, which is maintained by a local gardening group. The garden room also hosts activities, such as film nights, workshops and performances.

What makes the building so unique?

The exterior of a brick building with many windows on a street with trees, a bus stop and a man walking his dog. — Credit: Philip Vile, RIBA

Built on the site of an abandoned care home, the architects worked with United St Saviour’s Charity, which subsidises the flats, to create something special. The origins of the term ‘Almshouse’ are a charitable housing for people in need, especially the elderly, to live comfortably and affordably.

Ingrid Schroder, Director of The Architectural Association (AA) School of Architecture, speaking on behalf of the RIBA Stirling Prize Jury, explains that “designing social housing for later life is too often reduced to a simple provision of service. Appleby Blue, however, is a provision of pure delight. Its architects have crafted high-quality spaces that are generous and thoughtful, blending function and community to create environments that truly care for their residents.”

To win this prestigious prize, Abbleby Blue beat the restoration of Elizabeth Tower, better known as Big Ben’s tower, and London College of Fashion.