Mary Ward Centre

Newham, Greater London

Special Award for Reuse & Adaptation

Exceptional cultural heritage restoration of a building or development of a culturally significant site, to address present-day needs. Sponsored by EPR Architects

The Mary Ward Settlement is a multi-service charity focused on supporting the efforts and achievements of people through adult education, access to welfare and social justice and community services. A deep retrofit of the disused office building, Queensway House, on Stratford High Street in east London, offered the charity an opportunity to consolidate their existing education and legal support services that were split over two sites, and provided a dedicated, future-fit community hub for lifelong learning. The Mary Ward Centre embodies progress and possibility, demonstrating the transformative power of a retro-first philosophy. The project preserves 65% of the existing structure, aligning with the principles of circular construction and reducing the environmental impact associated with new builds. The approach, which began in 2020, involved a collaborative and participatory design process. Through workshops and continued consultation with the client, the design evolved to reflect the ethos of the Mary Ward Centre. As a result, the building layout is arranged according to the needs of the four distinct and interconnected groups comprising staff areas; legal centre clients; students; and the wider community. The architecture is rooted in simplicity and transparency. Retaining much of the original structure, they adapted the building to house an array of communal spaces within the expanded five-storey layout. A key design feature is the yellow accommodation stair, a bold intervention that serves as both a practical means of wayfinding and a visual anchor visible from the street. This not only connects the interior spaces but also creates a dialogue with the surrounding urban environment, reinforcing the Centre’s mission of being an open and accessible space. The grided main facade embraces a tripartite arrangement comprising a contemporary materials palette of lightweight aluminium cladding, to reduce structural loading. On the south elevation, perforated metal screens add a functional and aesthetic layer to the facade, providing sun shading while allowing windows to open safely without the need for restrictors. These thoughtful design details further the building's sustainable credentials, contributing to its thermal performance without compromising the user experience. The detailing of the project demonstrates a high level of care and precision, delivering quality within the constraints of a modest budget. The materials and finishes are thoughtfully chosen to reinforce the architectural vision, contributing to a cohesive and durable result. The workmanship aligns with the Centre’s overall ethos, ensuring the building is not only aesthetically pleasing but also robust and long-lasting. The Centre’s tight budget required creative solutions which have been delivered with some aplomb.

“The Mary Ward Centre is a worthy winner and excellent example of what an adaptive reuse ethos can deliver. The conversion from underutilised low grade office accommodation to community led education facility, whilst retaining 65% of the original building structure, has been transformative for the client, the building and the wider context. AWW’s design demonstrates all the benefits of a retrofit first approach without compromise to design quality and inclusivity.”

Pascal Wensink

Design Director

EPR Architects

Civic Trust Awards National Judging Panel

Pascal Wensink, Design Director, EPR Architects

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Civic Trust Award Citation

The Mary Ward Centre in Stratford exemplifies a transformative approach to urban regeneration, demonstrating how thoughtful architectural design can enhance community wellbeing, promote sustainability, and foster social inclusion. Located within a reimagined, deep-retrofitted office building—Queensway House—the Centre serves as a vital hub for adult education, legal support, and community services. This project is a testament to the power of adaptive reuse, successfully blending Mary Ward's principles of social justice, empowerment, and lifelong learning with modern sustainable practices. One of the most commendable features of this project is its sustainability approach. The retrofitting of the existing building significantly reduces embodied carbon, a crucial step in minimising the environmental impact of construction. By retaining 65% of the original structure, the project reduced carbon emissions by 40%, saving over 300 tons of CO2. This commitment to a circular economy is further reflected in the re-use of materials, interior fit-outs, and partnerships with local organisations to create sustainable community-based initiatives. The building is designed to meet high environmental standards, aiming for BREEAM Excellent certification and an EPC A rating, setting a new standard for sustainable retrofitting. It is a space that actively embraces people of all abilities, ensuring all can participate fully in the Centre’s offerings. Flexible, well-planned spaces—including breakout areas, social spaces, and generous circulation zones—encourage interaction and create a sense of belonging among the diverse users, whether students, staff, or community members. These spaces not only support the functional needs of adult learners but also provide a supportive environment for collaboration and empowerment. The building’s thoughtful design ensures that users can pause and connect throughout their journey, reinforcing the Centre’s ethos of inclusivity and support. Furthermore, the Centre’s vibrant yellow exterior and signage provide clear and welcoming visual cues, making it easily identifiable and accessible to all who approach. The Mary Ward Centre’s impact on the community is profound. Through extensive stakeholder engagement and collaboration with local networks and charities, the project has directly addressed the educational and socio-economic needs of the Stratford community. The Centre actively engages with the wider local context by offering outreach programs, food pantries, and educational initiatives for underserved communities, exemplifying its role as a catalyst for positive social change.

Judges’ Comments

An inspiring example of how sustainable architecture and community involvement can create a space that serves both immediate and long-term needs. This project reflects a holistic approach to urban regeneration, making a meaningful and lasting impact on the community it serves.