Two Cornish building schemes, both based in Redruth, have been recognised in the annual Michelmores Property Awards.
Kresen Kernow received the coveted Building of the Year award as well as winning Project of the Year (over £5m). The impressive development has re-imagined the former Redruth Brewery to create a public library and world class archive facility that houses some 1.5 million Cornish artefacts.
Of Kresen Kernow, Michelmores Property Awards judge Thelma Sorensen OBE said: “I am extremely proud to have Kresen Kernow in Cornwall; it is a long-awaited project and truly inspirational. The use of refurbished materials is exemplary; it is driving regeneration and a source of pride to many in the local community.”
Chi Winder and Chi Vesta in Pool won in the Project of the Year (under £5m) category. A homeless and social exclusion service, the scheme provides greatly needed accommodation in Redruth.
Built on a brownfield site that was formally the South Crofty mine, the centre has been constructed using robust local materials that are designed to stand the test of time. The completed scheme comprises 18 purpose built en-suite rooms with a kitchenette to facilitate those in crisis as well as IT facilities, a dedicated GP surgery, training room and communal lounge.
Of Chi Winder and Chi Vesta, architect John Beauchamp, who sat on the judging panel, said: “This is a really interesting and important project. I very much enjoyed the design and architecture, with its successful mix of traditional forms and contemporary detailing. A very well-deserved win.”
