The 2017 York Design Awards launched last night in thought-provoking fashion with writer, curator and cultural consultant Lewis Biggs OBE challenging the city’s property, architectural and development community to put art at the centre of placemaking.
Keynote speaker Lewis, is a former director of Tate Liverpool and director of Liverpool Biennial, the success of which contributed to Liverpool winning its bid to become European Capital of Culture for 2008. He delivered a thought-provoking speech encouraging the audience to ensure the public realm and urban environments deliver social inclusion through art installations and creative thinking.
A specially invited audience of more than 175 people attended the exclusive event at the Hiscox Insurance underwriting and customer experience centre on Peasholme Green. The event marked the opening of the award entry period which runs until 31st March. Full details on the categories and how to enter the prestigious awards, which are open to builders, architects, developers and building owners, are available at www.yorkdesignawards.org. Winners will be announced and presented with their awards at the presentation evening which takes place on Monday 26 June at York Racecourse
Janet Hopton, Chair of the York Design Awards says, “We’re delighted that Lewis Biggs was able to join us to launch the 2017 York Design Awards programme, which is sponsored by Hiscox. He provided case studies from Liverpool, Folkestone, Hong Kong and Asia, to demonstrate the importance of public art. Jason Parker of Make Architects also stimulated the audience, sharing his intent behind the creation of the Hiscox Building which won a York Design Award in 2016.”
Founded in 2006 to encourage the highest standards of restoration and refurbishment of existing buildings and reward the best design in new buildings and spaces in York, the York Design Awards are now entering their eleventh year. Developers, architects, building owners and homeowners are encouraged to submit their projects for consideration in one or more of the eight categories.
The awards programme operates with the generous support of a number of sponsors who have a strong association with the city. Hiscox is once again the main sponsor, with additional high profile sponsors including Arup, O’Neill Associates, York Conservation Trust, Shepherd Group, York Civic Trust, City of York Council, York Guild of Building, George F White, Fulprint, Ravage Productions, Virgin Trains East Coast, The Partners Group, United by Design, The Grand Hotel & Spa.
