News

Dovehouse Court wins RIBA Award

26 Aug 2025

A further award has been given to the almshouses at Dovehouse Court for their inspirational design and excellent sustainability credentials – the  first in the UK to fully conform to certified Passivhaus standards.

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) East Award was presented to Mole Architects, designers of the ground-breaking homes, at a ceremony held in Norwich which honoured 14 winning projects across the East of England.

Independent living
A detailed entry was followed by a judges’ visit to Dovehouse Court so they could see at first hand the contemporary homes designed for extended independent living for the over 55s. Each home has a balcony or individual terrace as well as enjoying landscaped communal gardens, an orchard and raised beds for flowers or vegetables.

Mole Architects’ design adhered to traditional almshouse layouts around a central courtyard to encourage social interaction.

RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki, said: "This year’s winners exemplify architecture’s power to transform – turning spaces into places of connection, creativity, and care.

"Individually these projects inspire and uplift, but collectively, they remind us that architects do far more than design buildings, they shape the way we live, work and connect."

New community

Chair of GTC Ann Bonnett said: “This latest RIBA East Award adds to the roll-call of accolades we have received for Dovehouse Court and we are delighted to have this recognition against fierce competition from other projects in our region. It is so rewarding to see our residents enjoying living at Dovehouse Court where they have created a thriving new community.”