The 2026 AJ Retrofit & Reuse Awards: A Celebration of Architectural Innovation and Sustainability
The AJ Retrofit & Reuse Awards, now in its fifth year, is a prestigious event that showcases the very best in architectural innovation and sustainability. This year's shortlist highlights a diverse range of projects, from unbuilt designs to long-term successes, all focused on the reuse and repurposing of existing structures. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, material circularity, and decarbonisation, the awards are a testament to the power of architectural creativity and environmental responsibility.
One of the most intriguing categories is 'Future Reuse', which celebrates unbuilt projects that demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to repurposing existing structures. The shortlist includes high-profile projects like the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre's swimming pool, a Grade II*-listed post-war building, and the Smithdon High School, a 1950s school designed by Alison and Peter Smithsons. The plans for these projects, submitted by FaulknerBrowns and WOO architects, and Jestico + Whiles, respectively, showcase a commitment to preserving historical significance while adapting buildings for modern use.
The 'Models from Europe' category, a new addition this year, highlights Europe's leadership in material circularity. David Kohn Architects' transformation of a former béguinage into an architecture facility in Hasselt, Belgium, is a standout project. DRDH Architects' rehearsal room for the Belgium National Orchestra and bureau SLA and Ninja Zurheide's 'From Weapons to Workspaces' project in Zaandam, Netherlands, also make the shortlist. These projects demonstrate a thoughtful approach to repurposing and reusing materials, offering a sustainable alternative to new construction.
'Retrofit Revisited' celebrates projects that have proven the long-term success of retrofit. Allford Hall Monaghan Morris's 2017 home for the Metropolitan Police and Gillespie Yunnie Architects' work at Royal William Yard in Plymouth are featured. LHC Design's JCB Academy and Holland Harvey's emergency night shelter, which previously appeared in the AJ's 2025 homelessness issue, complete this category. These projects showcase the potential for retrofit to enhance the functionality and longevity of existing buildings.
'Decarbonisation at Scale' is a category that recognizes ambitious projects delivering significant carbon savings across large or complex estates. HTA Design's work at the historic Sutton Estate and Wright & Wright's strategic refurb of Lambeth Palace for the Church of England are shortlisted. GRID Architects' ongoing transformation of Dolphin Square, a 1930s estate, also stands out. These projects demonstrate a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and creating sustainable, energy-efficient spaces.
The 'Meanwhile and Grassroots' category celebrates temporary, community-led, and low-cost projects that involve some material reuse and circularity. IF_DO's Eagle House in Hastings and Reed Watts Architects' demountable Chichester theatre are featured. Stride Treglown's circular kitchen project, which combines reuse with community engagement, and a tiny public facilities overhaul for a long-running Bristol venue, complete the shortlist. These projects showcase the potential for small-scale initiatives to have a significant environmental impact.
The awards programme, formerly known as the AJ Retrofit Awards, was renamed in 2024 to better reflect its expanding scope. The 2026 edition saw over 110 projects shortlisted, with each practice presenting their project to a jury of experts. The jury, including net zero carbon manager Tania Jennings, Max Fordham partner Hero Bennett, and associate professor Ruth Lang, will decide the winners, who will be announced at the AJ Retrofit & Reuse Awards on September 24th.
The event also includes keynote speeches from Grafton co-founder Shelley McNamara and OMA partner Reinier de Graaf, further emphasizing the importance of circularity and sustainability in architecture. The CircularBuild 2026 event, held on September 16th, will feature contributions from industry leaders like Mace, Landsec, and Great Portland Estates, further enriching the discussion on sustainable practices.
In conclusion, the 2026 AJ Retrofit & Reuse Awards showcase a diverse range of projects that push the boundaries of architectural innovation and sustainability. From unbuilt designs to long-term successes, these awards celebrate the potential for existing structures to be reimagined and repurposed, offering a more sustainable future for the built environment.
