AJ100 2010 Building of the Year: Kroon Hall by Hopkins Architects

Described by university president Richard C Levin as ‘Yale’s most sustainable building to date,’ it is certified LEED ‘Platinum’ and was designed to be, as near as possible, carbon neutral. This is despite the fact that the climate of New Haven, far less clement than that of the UK, means that natural ventilation is only possible in spring and autumn.

The building is a simple, single-naved form, designed as a masonry enclosure with a timber lining. It is clad with yellow Briar Hill stone, which is used extensively on the Yale campus, and lined with American red oak, much of which comes from the university’s own forests. Mike Hussey said: ‘I salute the ambassadorial qualities of Hopkins Architects, who gave the American academic elite a stunning addition to their campus and a lesson in aesthetic brilliance - one of the few subjects you can’t teach, even at Yale.’

Judge Angela Brady called it ‘an outstanding design and exemplar for its sustainability credentials.’ She said: ‘The curved timber roof structure in the interior is a delight and the detailing looks impeccable. It is warm and welcoming and full of natural light. This addition to the campus must act like a magnet for students wanting to experience UK sustainable architecture at its best.

Judges

Angela Brady of Brady Mallalieu Architects
Mike Hussey managing director of property fund Almacantar
Rory Olcayto deputy editor of The Architects’ Journal

Shortlist

Highly Commended

Allford Hall Monaghan Morris =39
Kentish Town Health Centre, London Shortlisted for the 2009 Stirling Prize, this project was praised by the judges for ‘exceeding expectation in design, layout and result’.

Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios 24 Broadcasting Tower student accommodation, Leeds. ‘A bold statement with inspiring materials.’

Foster + Partners 2
Winspear Opera House, Dallas, US. ‘Impressive structural opportunity. This has a brave and strong design.’

Hawkins\Brown = 45
New Biochemistry Building at the University of Oxford. ‘A quality building providing relevant and attractive space for educational use.’

Make = 45
Grosvenor Waterside residential project, London. ‘Cleverly worked accommodation relative to its external facade. Great finish.’

Have your say

You must sign in to make a comment.