Nether Cowieswells by HYVE Architects announced as the Winner of the 2018 VELUX Roof Window Award

Glenrothes, UK, 26 February 2019 – Nether Cowieswells in Crawton, Aberdeenshire – designed by HYVE Architects – has been named the winner of the 2018 VELUX Roof Window Award. Judged by a panel of some of the UK’s leading architects, this exciting competition sought to reward inventive and modern designs that use VELUX roof window products. HYVE Architects will receive £2,000 in prize money and a VELUX curved glass rooflight to use in their next project.

HYVE Architects’ beautiful bothy conversion in Crawton was the unanimous favourite of this year’s judging panel. Using VELUX roof windows in the original structure’s gable, HYVE Architects were able to achieve maximum light deep into the converted space.

Jane Duncan, former president of the RIBA, said Nether Cowieswells is the, “Most simple and elegant of remodeling projects which subtly introduces the wonderful local light through VELUX roof windows to enhance the clarity of the spaces.”

In addition, we would also like to make special mention of three other exceptional entries that really stood out in an impressive field of 130 entries:

·       Spring Cottage by Covell Mathews Architects was singled out by Nick Moss, president of the Manchester Society of Architects. He said, “Set into the landscape, the mono-pitched house utilises VELUX roof windows as its defining feature to create a fabulous double height space that maximises views over the panoramic landscape and sea beyond.”

·       The Steading, another entry by winners HYVE architects, prompted Jane Duncan to say, “This is a very slick and crisp space, which uses light from VELUX roof windows to give depth and texture to create a wonderful and playful family space.”

·       While Phil O’Dwyer, co-founder of OMI Architects, gave special mention to 48 Milverton Road by T2 Architects. He described it as, “A great use of innovation and an example of how VELUX roof windows can change the dynamic of a room and bring light into a space where it is most needed.”

The 2018 VELUX Roof Window Award attracted entries from across the length and breadth of UK and Ireland. It has demonstrated a real drive by architecture and design firms to create better living environments by bringing daylight and fresh air into people's homes. At VELUX, we are very proud to have been a part of them all.

For more information on the 2018 VELUX Roof Window Awards, please visit http://designcompetition.velux.co.uk.