International architecture prizes
We are delighted to have received three coveted accolades at the International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities (IAKS) Awards 2017, held in Cologne. In the biennial awards programme, entrants from around the world compete to receive an IOC IAKS Award or an IPC IAKS Distinction, considered the two most important international architecture prizes for sports, leisure and recreational facilities.
Derby Arena, our multi-purpose velodrome, arena and community leisure facility received an IOC IAKS Bronze Award for exceptional facility design, as well as an IPC IAKS Distinction for universal accessibility.
Complementing the scheme the jury remarked: “The architects experience and courage led to an innovative design that will certainly influence future velodrome projects. Raising the track to first floor level creates a truly barrier-free access to the infield and significantly broadens the activities that can be offered.
Hebburn Central, our community sport and leisure facility also received an IPC IAKS Distinction for universal accessibility.
In awarding the prize the jury remarked: “This high-quality community facility meets the highest standards of accessibility, providing a wide range of leisure facilities for local disabled people. The jury particularly appreciates the commitment to working alongside local disability organisations during the planning of the building.”
Michael Hall, Partner at FaulknerBrowns Architects, said: “As the only UK practice to receive recognition for two projects at this year’s awards we are absolutely delighted. The IAKS Awards provide us with the opportunity to compete against the very best sport and leisure architecture that the world has to offer, so to receive three prizes and such fantastic praise from the jury is really pleasing.”
