2019 Houses Awards: Sustainability

Jury comment

After a long deliberation over this year’s commended projects, the jury agreed that the Garden Bunkie by Reddog Architects deserved the Sustainability award. This small building, akin to a granny flat, is called the “bunkie” in reference to the name given to humble Ontario guest cottages. Beautifully detailed and designed, the light-filled building connects intimately to the garden, providing a flexible space that could be a quiet retreat for a new parent, an evening workspace or a guesthouse for extended family.

The Garden Bunkie was awarded for its modesty, and for its use of timber and simple materials to produce an affordable outcome that makes both a social and ecological statement. In particular, the jury commended the project team for designing around existing trees and connecting the dwelling to the local landscape, achieving biophilic benefits for the occupants while respecting nature. The use of sliding screens, skylights and well-orientated windows allows the building to gain passive natural light, heating and cooling. This considered collaboration between the architect, structural engineer and builder has resulted in an affordable, adaptable and integrated outcome.

The Award for Sustainability is supported by Sussex.

See full image galleries of all the winning and shortlisted projects here.