London retirement home crowned winner of prestigious Riba Stirling Prize in architecture

The John Morden Centre retirement day care facility in London has been awarded the prestigious architecture prize in the UK. The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Stirling Prize 2023 jury praised the building for its use of sustainable materials and its contribution to raising the standard of quality in social healthcare. Designed by Mæ, the John Morden Centre surpassed five other competitors, including A House for Artists and the University of Warwick's Faculty of Arts. The six finalist buildings addressed various social issues, such as wealth disparities and housing shortages. RIBA President Muyiwa Oki commented that these projects offer innovative solutions to complex challenges, from tackling loneliness and building communities to preserving heritage. The John Morden Centre was added to the Morden College, a Grade One-listed residential and nursing site for the elderly with historical buildings dating back to the 17th century. The Centre consists of interconnected red brick pavilions and a central timber cloister. It offers a range of facilities, including art rooms, a hair salon, a nail bar, and event spaces, promoting social interactions and supporting residents' well-being. The UK's ageing population and declining birth rate present long-term challenges, including increased pressure on families to balance care responsibilities with work obligations. The government report suggests that innovative solutions are necessary to manage the growing demand for care services, as the number of people aged 65 and over is projected to reach 24% of the population by 2043. The head of Mæ, the design agency responsible for the John Morden Centre, described the project as fulfilling and hopeful for the adult social care sector. The project's success serves as a model for creating environments that positively impact mental and physical health, according to founding director Alex Ely. The John Morden Centre was commended for its joyful and inspiring atmosphere that prevents isolation and promotes a sense of belonging. Features such as concealed wooden handrails, built-in seating, and high-contrast floor patterns benefit elderly residents with different needs and abilities, including those with dementia. The building also incorporates biophilic design principles, connecting with the surrounding natural environment and featuring a large cedar tree as a focal point in the garden. To reduce its carbon footprint, the Centre used sustainable construction materials like cross-laminated timber, while lime-based mortar and passive ventilation through the chimneys minimize the energy required for heating and cooling. The RIBA Stirling Prize is awarded annually to recognize the best new buildings in the UK. The judging criteria consider design vision, innovation, originality, the ability to engage and delight, as well as accessibility and sustainability. Previous winners include Magdalene College's New Library in Cambridge, Bloomberg in London, and the Liverpool Everyman Theatre.