The inaugural presentation event for the Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust’s (DHBT) Architecture Awards took place in early November at Elvaston Castle.

Nominees gathered for tea and cakes before the awards ceremony in the impressive Hall of the Fair Star.

Derek Latham welcomed everyone to the event, explaining the history of DHBT and stressing that new members are always welcome. Oliver Gerrish then opened the awards and introduced the former chief executive of Cromford Mills, Sarah McLeod, to make the presentations. Sarah now works as CEO of the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust. A special award for the outstanding overall project was presented in memory of the late Deborah Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, who was a keen supporter of the Trust, by her daughter Lady Sophia Topley. u

For further details about the DHBT and to apply for next year’s awards, see derbyshirehistoricbuildingstrust.org.uk

Award Winners

Restoration of an Historic Building in an Urban Setting:

Darley Abbey Stables (winner), BHB Architects for Tanya Spilsbury; Duke of Norfolk School, Glossop (commended), Randfield Associates for Stephen Walker; St Helena’s Campus, Chesterfield (commended), Frank Shaw Associates for the University of Derby.

Restoration of an Historic Building to its Original Purpose:

John Smedley Listed Cottages (winner), Evans Vettori Architects for John Smedley Ltd; Duffield Hall (commended), James Boon at Lathams for Peter Parkin.

Reuse of an Historic Building:

Sudbury Courtyard (winner), Nick Cox Architects for the Hon Mrs Fitzalan Howard; Old Threshing Barn, Morley (commended), Grey Richards Trowell Architecture for Jim Campbell.

New Building in an Historic Setting:

Buxton Methodist Church (winner), Roddie MacLean, Mattin MacLean Architects; Chickenfoot Brewery, Bonsall (commended), Martin Tucker Ltd for Colette Dewhurst.

Derbyshire Heritage Champion:

Elizabeth Cook of Spital Chapels Preservation Trust who spearheaded a campaign to safeguard this Chesterfield landmark.

The Deborah Devonshire Award for Outstanding Overall Project:

St Helen’s House, Derby, Peter Brownhill BHB Architects for Richard Blunt.