THE JUDGES' REPORT

Standon Mill, Hertfordshire – Silver Award for Best Renovation

'Standon Mill was a water-powered flour mill, built with a cast iron and steel frame and faced in brick that had been erected in the first year of the 20th century. This five story building was altered and amended throughout its life to meet changing industrial demands. By 1994 it was redundant and as happens with empty buildings, was vandalised and became a blot on the landscape of the village of Standon. Although it has a riverside location, it was in an area prone to flooding, alongside a major road and surrounded by modest quality recent development. This is a development that managed the challenges of the environment and the building.

The use of a sprinkler system in residential accommodation is unusual, but should be a standard to be repeated throughout the industry. It is a tried and tested system that will save lives and will not be defeated by the occupier in the way that fire-resistant room doors are by propping them open or removing the door closing mechanism. The new development has created interesting loft apartments with style and character, which are light and bright even though the floor plate of the building has considerable depth. The sculpturing of the interior of the building has not only added to the accommodation provided, but also created an attractive development that enhances its location.'

Extract from the judges' report, What House? Award