New categories for the second FAB (Farm and Agricultural Buildings) awards organised by RIDBA (the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association) have helped to attract a plethora of entries.
The categories added to the award scheme following the success of the first event in 2013 include diversification, small industrial buildings, working farm buildings above and below 250m2, equestrian and unusual buildings, to reflect the diverse range of uses that buildings in the countryside are now put to. These are in addition to an overall first, second and third prize.
Entries for this year's event include the conversion of a 17th Century barn into offices at Boyton Hall near Chelmsford, Essex, a new, green-roofed fire station in Hirwaun in the Rhondda valley, a new clubhouse for Lampeter Rugby Club in Ceredigion, a play barn at Pink Pig Farm in Cunthorpe, Lincolnshire, new buildings at Oswestry livestock auction in Shropshire, an agricultural sales and servicing showroom in Swineshead, Lincolnshire, and a technology centre at Throws Farm in Stebbing, Essex.
Entries in all categories are judged on three criteria, with 50% of the marks being allocated for aesthetics/design, 30% for functionality/fit for purpose, and 20% for sustainability.
The FAB awards aim to recognise and reward RIDBA corporate members, typically a contractor or fabricator of steel or timber framed buildings, and their clients, who have taken the time and effort to ensure their new buildings are sympathetic to and even complement the local landscape, while ensuring they are fit for purpose and have been designed with sustainability in mind.
Winners of the 2015 awards will be announced at a gala presentation dinner attended by Countryfile presenter Tom Heap at the Royal York Hotel in York on Friday 24th April following the organisation's AGM.
The awards are sponsored by Marley Eternit, Wedge Galvanising, Kingspan Insulated Panels, Brett Martin Daylight Systems, Steadman's, United Roofing Products and Joseph Ash Galvanizing.
RIDBA's 200+ members comprise contractors, designers, colleges, surveyors, land agents, planners, manufacturers and clients. The organisation campaigns on their behalf in the fields of good practice, health and safety and new legislation.
