Event
William Sutton Prize: two years on

Posted on 2 October 2025

What an honour to return to the William Sutton Prize ceremony last week.

Thank you to Melany and the events team at Clarion for such a wonderful evening and for inviting us back to share our journey.

Two years ago, our research into low-carbon construction won us this prestigious prize. Last Thursday, our Director Melissa Dowler and Senior Architect Grant Mitchell shared our progress at the 125th ceremony.

Our research develops an innovative approach to housing that looks both to the past and future: a new vernacular using low-carbon, biogenic and locally sourced materials. This methodology significantly reduces embodied carbon by up to 70% compared to business-as-usual housebuilding methods, while maintaining commercial viability and architectural quality.

The strategy harnesses locally sourced materials - lime render, limestone, ironstone, timber cladding, cement board sheets and clay tiles. Materials chosen to reduce transportation and manufacturing emissions, contribute to biodiversity whilst stimulating reforestation and the UK's green economy.

Our designs work for both houses and apartment blocks up to four storeys (100% dual aspect, low form factor) using conventional timber frame superstructures with external lime render on low-carbon blockwork, incorporating stone features for added resilience.

As Melissa reflects: "The William Sutton Prize provided 'the opportunity to work with Clarion on the 'proof' – validating our findings in terms of financial viability and deliverability.'"

While our William Sutton collaboration has concluded, this research continues to evolve, demonstrating that beautiful, net-zero housing is within reach.

Thank you to the Clarion team for their belief, collaboration and support. And congratulations to this year's winners! Looking forward to seeing your research come to life.