AJ Architecture Awards finalist

One of our rural projects has been named as a finalist in the AJ Architecture Awards 2025.

The project, which is a contemporary home for a couple in one of North Yorkshire’s protected landscapes, is in the running for the Manser Medal - AJ House of the Year 2025, which celebrates architectural excellence in new-build homes across the UK.

Judges shortlisted our project as they recognised the design innovation that went into creating such a unique country property.

The project is one of eight contenders vying for the award – read more here in the Architects’ Journal.

A home inspired by nature

Set within a designated National Landscape in North Yorkshire - formerly known as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - the house was delivered through the ‘exceptional country homes’ clause (Paragraph 84e) of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). The garden, which was originally created in Victorian times, has been carefully restored by the clients as part of their commitment to rejuvenating its historic setting.

Drawing inspiration from natural forms, the design reflects the contours of the land and the organic shapes of leaves and water. Dry stone walls blend the structure into its sloping site, while copper-clad flutes rise above to create a striking architectural statement. A dramatic 13-metre cantilevered balcony demanded an innovative structural solution, balancing steel, timber, and concrete elements to achieve its bold form.

This project not only demonstrates how contemporary design can sit comfortably within a sensitive rural setting, but also how sustainability can be embedded into every detail. Notable features include a living roof, water source heat pump, hydro-electric power from the valley stream, and use of recycled materials such as decommissioned oil rig pipes, timber from the woodland and green concrete. The result is a property that is effectively zero-carbon in operation.

Prestigious recognition

Rural Solutions acted as the delivery and technical design architect, project manager, contract administrator and planning consultant. The Architects-Group were the concept design and planning-stage architects. Dobson Construction were the main contractors.

Paul Waite Associates, Silcock Leedham, Quantum Arbiter, Kit Peel Landscapes, Abigail Yeates Architects, David Houldershaw Arboriculturist, Vanessa Rhodes Interiors, and Brilliant Lighting, were all part of the team involved in creating an outstanding home.

Speaking about the AJ Architecture Award shortlist, Malcolm Birks, Head of Design at Rural Solutions, said:

“Designing an exceptional home in a sensitive landscape is both a privilege and a challenge, and we are delighted the judges have acknowledged the project’s architectural and environmental merits. To be a finalist for the Manser Medal is an honour we are very proud of, and it recognises the hard work and dedication not only of Rural Solutions but the whole project team.”

The winners of the AJ Architecture Awards will be revealed at a celebratory event at the Royal Lancaster London on 27 November 2025.

Explore the full story behind this outstanding project, here.

Photography © Tom Luddington and © Mike Whorley