The ‘triple event’ evening of Wednesday November 24, 2021 was held in The Hold’s 200-seat auditorium. After such a long absence of Ipswich Society events due to the pandemic, the Society wanted to put on something special for members and guests in this newest of Ipswich venues. This was not only the usual November Awards event, but looked back at the missing 2020 Awards courtesy of our Vice-President Bob Allen.  

A brief presentation – the visuals were excellent – and commentary on some of the nominations culminated in the presentation of two Commendation Awards for projects completed in 2020. 

‘A pair of striking contemporary residences [in Luther Road and Rushmere Road] built to high standards of sustainability, with designs echoing local vernacular features – while stretching the possibilities presented by their contrasting sites.’

The ‘ham’ in the evening’s sandwich was the prize-giving relating to the photographic competition held to celebrate our 60th birthday. Quality stretched-canvas prints of the winning images were presented to the three photographers: Helen Hedley (St Margaret’s Church from Christchurch Park, springtime); Anita Blyth (Stoke Quay across the water, night-time shot); John Hatfield (‘Paved with gold’, Oak Lane night-time shot).

The evening proceeded smoothly on into the 2021 Awards with an informative commentary by our other Vice-President, Chris Wiltshire.

‘These varied and brilliant designs, daring and thrilling realisations serve to enhance the environment, the streets and ambience of our town.

Award of Commendation: Armitage Place, off Whitton Church Lane; IBC microhomes to tackle homelessness.

Award of Commendation: Old Tooks Bakery Estate, Old Norwich Road. IBC council housing.

Award of Commendation: New Wolsey 2, Theatre Square, off Civic Drive. The New Wolsey Theatre's youth and participation activities centre.

Award of Distinction: The Unitarian Meeting House, off Friars Street. ‘The most important surviving 17th century Dissenter’s Church in the country’ (Grade I listed) saved and restored in a major project. 

The Society is extremely appreciative of the efforts of all concerned in these projects’ conception and completion.

Thanks also to the nominators, the judges and particularly to our Vice-Chairman Tony Marsden for organising a smoothly-run and enjoyable evening.  

The complete sets of images for the Photographic competition, the Awards 2020 and the Awards 2021 can be viewed on the Society's Image Archive.

RG

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