MOH selected as architect at Waterfront site
Urban Splash has announced Vienna based practice MOH Architects as winners of the Lex competition in Walsall.
The competition, run with RIBA, called for architects to deliver an innovative new concept which would stand on a 2.1 acre site within the Walsall Waterfront scheme.
MOH was selected because of its ability to bring out what is special about the site and use the waterfront location to its full potential. The outline design comprises four low level buildings which will stand at the Northern end of the site. The buildings will align the waterfront and will contain a mix of residential and commercial units as well as public courtyards and private residential areas.
Jörg Hugo of MOH, said: “We are thrilled to have had our designs selected and are really looking forward to working with Urban Splash, its partners and the local community to refine the proposals.”
MOH were selected following an intense judging process involving six other practices, with Uxbridge based Kirkland Fraser Moore coming a very close second. Judges included acclaimed architects such as Will Alsop, Glenn Howells, the man behind Urban Splash award winning Rotunda scheme, and Hazel Rounding of shedkm. Also on the panel were key Walsall Council figures, Ben Reid of the Walsall Regeneration Company, Peter Murray of English Partnerships and Stuart Kirkwood of Advantage West Midlands.
Urban Splash was represented by chief executive Jonathan Falkingham and Midlands managing director Nathan Cornish who said: “The panel was looking for a concept which was right for Walsall, something which would not only complement the Waterfront plans, but also come up with a vision that would work this waterfront site to its full potential.
“The calibre of entries was incredibly high and we were delighted to see such a strong interpretation of our requirements. Not only was MOH’s winning design superb but there has to be a special mention to runners up Kirkland Fraser Moore for their stunning entry as well as Type O, an exemplary young practice whose ingenuity and creativity is extremely exciting for the industry.”
Councillor Adrian Andrew, Walsall Council deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration, said: “This is fantastic news and a truly inspiring idea for a development that will continue the exciting work at the Waterfront. With our partners it was always our intention to create a new quarter within Walsall based on architectural design of the highest order and this continues the trend.”
