Nevill Holt Theatre in Market Harborough, Leicestershire, has been shortlisted for the coveted 2019 RIBA Stirling Prize, awarded to the UK’s best new building, Nevil Holt Opera company has revealed.

The new auditorium, which replaces 10 years of temporary tents, was created by architects Witherford Watson Mann and theatre designers Sound Space Vision and hosted its first audiences this year. It is housed in a 17th century stable block and the designers were keen to retain the building’s historic character.

Earlier this year, the theatre won the RIBA East Midlands Award 2019 as well as the RIBA National Award, qualifying it for the Stirling Prize. Nevill Holt Theatre joins five other nominated buildings: The Macallan Distillery by Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, Cork House by Matthew Barnett Howland with Dido Milne and Oliver Wilton, London Bridge Station by Grimshaw, Goldsmith Street housing by Mikhail Riches and Cathy Hawley, and The Weston by Feilden Fowles Architects.

Nevill Holt Opera General Manager Rosenna East commented: “We are overjoyed that architects Witherford Watson Mann have been shortlisted for this supremely prestigious architecture prize. Great architecture demonstrates a commitment to designing and developing sustainable buildings and spaces for the improvement and enhancement of people’s lives – whether now or in generations to come. This design has brought new life to a beautiful historic building, and enabled us to provide uplifting and inspiring quality arts experiences to thousands of people this year alone.”

The prize, sponsored by property investment and development company Almacantar, is judged against a range of criteria including design vision; innovation and originality; capacity to stimulate, engage and delight occupants and visitors; accessibility and sustainability; how fit the building is for its purpose; and the level of client satisfaction. This year’s winner will be announced in a ceremony taking place at London’s Roundhouse on 8 October. Tickets are now available.

 

Image

Nevill Holt Theatre has been shortlisted for the prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize for architecture (Hélène Binet) .