Royal Veterinary College Student Village

THE Royal Veterinary College’s Student Village has scooped a prestigious architecture award.

The site was honoured today (Thursday) by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and won a national RIBA Award – a so-called ‘architecture Oscar’.

Judges said the iconic 6,427 sq m (69,180 sq ft) building, in Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, designed by Hawkins/Brown and built by Morgan Sindall, embodied the “concept of sharing”.

A statement added: “They thus celebrate not only economy but the spirit of education, which best derives from spontaneous meetings, interaction, and gathering.

“The arrangement of the eight dormitory buildings creates a series of shared vistas and shared green commons across the site, spaced out enough so as not to steal light from each other.”

RIBA president Angela Brady said: “For nearly fifty years the RIBA Awards have reflected the changing state of British architecture and revealed emerging design trends. “What really stands out is that even in times of austerity, we can still deliver amazingly clever, high quality buildings that reflect the needs of today and enhance our daily lives. “The judges were delighted to see so many well considered, crafted and innovative projects, and the use of beautiful materials; these projects are truly exciting and inspiring.”

She added: “The huge range of great buildings will guarantee an exciting Stirling Prize shortlist later in the year and illustrates the value of quality in architecture.”

• Hertfordshire enjoyed further success, as the £25m Lee Valley White Water Centre, in Waltham Cross, built for the London 2012 Olympics, picked up a RIBA East Spirit of Ingenuity Award.