Chesterfield architects selected for high profile competition

Whittam Cox Architects are the region’s only practice to have been selected, as one of twelve architectural teams from almost 70 entries, to take part in a high-profile retail design competition.

The Crown Estate/ Architects Journal ‘Future Retail Destinations’ Competition was open to all UK-based architects and asked entrants to design an innovative and successful out-of-town shopping destination for the year 2030 and beyond.

The ultimate winning practice will be appointed to design a retail park in a prominent out-of-town location, served by major roads and offer a mix of retail, leisure and food and beverage outlets.

The Crown Estate – which previously partnered with the AJ on the Future Office contest in 2016 – has a £2.5 billion regional retail and leisure portfolio across the UK.

Leading the design submission, Board Director Andy Dabbs commented:-

“Retail design is in our DNA; we have been working continuously for a diverse range of retail-focussed clients for decades now. We are delighted to have been selected for the next stage of this high-profile competition.

“Our intention is to demonstrate the strength and depth of our design and thought leadership in the ever evolving world of consumer and experience led retail”.

At present Whittam Cox Architects are working on a range of schemes, including Middlewood Locks in Salford Quays, Royal Wharf, a new riverside development in London’s Royal Docks and a range of local schemes including new student developments in Sheffield, residential works at Kelham Island, retail works at the former Norton College site in south Sheffield and Chesterfield’s town masterplan.

The last 44 years has seen the practice relocate its head office to Chesterfield and establish regional hubs in Leeds and London as well as now receiving recognition as one of the UK’s Top 40 architectural practices who strive to deliver outstanding professional services to the nation’s property and construction sector.