2019 Nominations
Kandersteg, 10 Park Road, West Malvern, was built originally in 1935 in a fashionable Art Deco style. In 2013, the house, which needed thorough renovation, was bought by Chris and Rebecca Hollier. Whilst retaining its Art Deco style it has been transformed by Worcester architects, Glazzards, into a modern family home with great imagination, taking full advantage of its superb views over Herefordshire.
Ben Roberts, the local property developer of Falconrest, Victoria Road, saw the opportunity for a new apartment building when the former police house was demolished. Using Glazzards again, eight one and two-bedroomed apartments have been provided in a modern structure which relates well to its surroundings. The falcon, which is often seen flying in the area, inspired both the name and the attractive sculpture at the entrance gate.
The third project considered was Rogers Theatre, Malvern College. The original building was an impressive gymnasium designed by the Worcester architect William Henman in 1903. As requirements changed, it was adapted as a drama studio but was never fit for purpose. It has now been transformed by the architectural firm, Squires Brown, with advice from theatrical consultants Charcoal Blue, into a state-of the-art theatre. Attached to the front of the building is an ultra-modern foyer. Both this extension and the theatre itself , has been designed to allow total flexibility.
The Audley Ellerslie retirement village in Abbey Road has been developed on the site of Ellerslie, the former girls’ school. The development incorporates not only the original Ellerslie house but also Southlands and Cherbourg houses. It has had a very positive impact on this area of Malvern. Six other apartment buildings have been added in the grounds with views over the Severn Valley. Ellerslie House has been splendidly renovated. The architectural firm of Francis of Cardiff and construction companies Zenith (phase one) and Waites (phase two) have taken three years to complete this complicated building project for the Audley Villages organisation.
The garden Gazebo at 24 Croft Bank, West Malvern, is in complete contrast to the other schemes. This charming little garden feature was designed by homeowner Andy Adams. It was built by Andy White of Shucknall Hill. It is a circular brick and stone structure with an ingenious timber and slate roof. It sits on its southward-facing slope adding a touch of fairy-tale magic to the scene.
2019 Awards
After much discussion, the Civic Award sub-committee decided to give the 2019 award to Rogers Theatre, Malvern College, a building of character which has been spectacularly transformed for modern use. The presentation was made on Friday 14th June and is reported here. The committee also wished to celebrate the quality of Falconrest and the West Malvern garden Gazebo by awarding them ‘Highly Commended’ certificates.
