Ke-design Wins Best New Small Development at the LABC Building Excellence Awards 2026

Ke-design Wins Best New Small Development at the LABC Building Excellence Awards 2026 Ke-design is delighted to have been named the West Midlands Regional Winner for Best New Small Development at the LABC Building Excellence Awards 2026 for our development of three detached homes at Coopers Lane, Porth-Y-Waen, near Oswestry. 

The project will now progress to the LABC National Finals in January 2027. 

Designed Around the Site 

Work began on the project in 2021, when Ke-design was appointed to design three new homes for a local builder and developer, taking the scheme through architectural design, planning and Building Regulations.

With spectacular south-facing views and a naturally sloping site, the development provided an opportunity to create something distinctive. The client gave us the freedom to make the most of the setting, rather than opting for three conventional executive homes.

The resulting properties use split-level floor plans to respond to the site's changing levels. Each home features a glazed double-height entrance, leading down to an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area with extensive floor-to-ceiling glazing framing the countryside views.

Upstairs, four double bedrooms and three bathrooms feature vaulted ceilings, while glazed gables and balconies allow the principal bedrooms to make the most of the surrounding landscape.

Design Meets Energy Efficiency

Timber-frame construction provides a highly insulated and airtight building envelope. Combined with solar technology, underfloor heating and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR), the homes have been designed with energy efficiency and comfortable modern living in mind.

The strength of the development was demonstrated by two of the three homes selling off-plan through Monks Estate Agents.

We are incredibly proud to have the project recognised by the LABC Building Excellence Awards and would like to thank our client for placing their trust in Ke-design, as well as everyone who helped bring the development to life.

Project Team 

Architectural Services: Ke-design
Client, Developer & Building Contractor: Kevin Davies
Structural Engineer: JPS Civil and Structural Design
Drainage Engineers: Berrys
Timber Frame: Huws Gray
Render: Gwilt & Son Plastering Contractors
Local Authority Building Control: Shropshire Council 

We look forward to seeing the project represent the West Midlands at the LABC Building Excellence Awards National Finals in January 2027.