Rose Villas Shortlisted for CIAT Awards: A Triumph in Sustainable Design

We’re excited to announce that our Rose Villas project has been shortlisted for the prestigious CIAT Awards in the Small Projects category! This marks another exciting recognition for us as a company, and we’re eagerly awaiting the final awards ceremony in London on September 26th. Stay tuned for updates on how it all unfolds!

Transforming Rose Villas: A Victorian Revival

We believe the Rose Villas project is a great example of breathing new life into a historic structure while meeting modern needs. Located in a Sheffield conservation area, this once-neglected Victorian house was transformed into a vibrant, accessible, and energy-efficient family home. The clients’ vision was clear: create a space for multi-generational living with open-plan areas, enhanced energy efficiency, and a side extension for additional functionality. A key focus was improving accessibility for older, less mobile family members who frequently visit, alongside bringing more natural light into previously dim spaces.

A Phased Approach to Minimise Disruption

To ensure a smooth transformation, the project was delivered in two carefully planned phases. Phase 1 involved a partial deep retrofit of the existing solid-walled house, upgrading its core systems while preserving its historic charm. Phase 2 introduced a side extension, built using modern construction techniques but designed to blend seamlessly with the traditional aesthetic of the original structure. This thoughtful approach minimized disruption for the family while achieving the desired upgrades.

Sustainable Materials for a Greener Future

Sustainability was at the heart of the Rose Villas project. We prioritised bio-based, organic materials to reduce embodied carbon, including recycled walling stone, cork board insulation, lime plaster, Welsh slate roofing, timber doors and windows, and stone flooring. Wherever possible, we reused and up-cycled existing elements, such as the original floorboards and door leaves, to preserve the home’s character while minimising waste.

Accessibility and Modern Living

One of the standout achievements of the Rose Villas project was enhancing accessibility without compromising on style or functionality. The design catered to the needs of less mobile family members, ensuring the home is welcoming and practical for all generations. The open-plan layout and increased natural light created a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfectly suited for 21st-century family living.

Looking Ahead: Follow the Journey

We’re incredibly proud of the Rose Villas project and its recognition in the CIAT Awards shortlist. If you’d like to dive deeper into the details of this transformation, please send us a message and we can have a chat. We’ll be sharing more insights and updates in the coming weeks, so watch this space for further news.