Lion Green Road Housing Wins 2026 RIBA Stirling Prize
London's high-density residential project earns top architectural honors for community-focused design.
1Architectural Excellence in London
The Lion Green Road housing development in Coulsdon has officially secured the 2026 RIBA Stirling Prize. Designed by Mary Duggan Architects and Ruff Architects, the project provides 157 homes across five distinct blocks. Commissioned by Croydon Council, this high-density scheme was recognized for its exceptional contribution to the United Kingdom's architectural landscape.
2Overcoming Topographical Challenges
The project site presented significant challenges due to its steeply sloped terrain, which previously functioned as a car park. Architects utilized a staggered layout across the incline to accommodate the density. This strategic placement ensures that the five blocks integrate effectively into the landscape while maintaining a cohesive visual identity for residents.
3Innovative Star-Shaped Geometry
Each of the five residential blocks features a faceted, star-shaped floor plan. These structures are rotated to provide unique landscape views and ensure every home is dual-aspect. This design choice maximizes natural light penetration into living spaces, directly addressing the common issue of dark, cramped conditions often found in high-density urban housing.
4Materiality and Visual Unity
To unify the complex while maintaining individual character, the architects employed a trio of complementary brick types. This consistent specification allows for subtle variations in height and orientation across the site. The result is a development that achieves scale without falling into the trap of monotonous, uniform architectural repetition throughout the blocks.
5Prioritizing Community and Nature
Beyond the physical structures, the project emphasizes shared green spaces that weave through the site. These outdoor areas are designed to foster social interaction among residents, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. The design successfully balances the need for private living with generous, accessible spaces that connect people to nature.
6Historical Context of Winners
Lion Green Road marks the fourth housing scheme to win the Stirling Prize in its 30-year history. It follows previous housing winners including Accordia in 2008, Goldsmith Street in 2019, and Appleby Blue Almshouse in 2025. This selection highlights a recurring institutional focus on high-quality, socially conscious residential architecture within the UK.
7Broader 2026 Award Recognition
The ceremony at Old Billingsgate also honored other significant projects. Satish Jassal Architects received the Neave Brown Award for Rowan Court, while the Reinvention Award went to Oru Sutton. Additionally, the York Minster Centre of Excellence and The Buttermarket in Cornwall were recognized for their respective contributions to client service and community conservation.
8Impact on National Housing
RIBA president Chris Williamson praised the project for proving that high-density housing can maintain high quality. By transforming a difficult site into a living landscape, the architects have provided a scalable model for future developments. This win reinforces the importance of thoughtful, resourceful design in solving the pressing national housing crisis.