The winners of the Don’t Move, Improve 2025 competition have been announced, with Elemental House by Archmongers taking the title of Home of the Year. This 20th-century split-level residence in Clapton, which had remained untouched since the 1970s, has been skillfully transformed into a modern, comfortable family home infused with Danish design elements.
Archmongers director Johan Hybschmann shared insights during an interview, stating, “We recognized that the house possessed the potential to become a remarkable living space, and it turned out to provide an even more robust foundation than we anticipated. The structure itself played a pivotal role in guiding the extensive renovation, utilizing bold shapes and authentic, self-finished materials to enhance its original character. It was gratifying to approach the project in this manner; despite the significant changes, the essence of the house remains intact, comfortably situated within its terrace.”
The latest winners from the 14 finalists in the Don’t Move, Improve 2025 shortlist showcase a variety of urban residences that significantly enhance the living experience for their occupants, thanks to innovative and environmentally conscious architectural design.
Federico Ortiz, the head of the program at the architectural organization NLA, which oversees the competition, commented on the overall winner by Archmongers: “The architects have expertly reconfigured the existing structure, introducing unexpected spaces and flows that harmoniously connect with the original heritage of the house. The innovative repositioning of the stairs, the elimination of the garage, and the thoughtful adjustments to the layout are all remarkable yet understated decisions. The incorporation of recycled materials has resulted in a sustainable environment that is both practical and inviting. This approach is profoundly intelligent, remaining grounded and unpretentious—truly exemplary.”
This announcement concludes another successful cycle of the popular VitrA-sponsored event. Last year’s winner, Aden Grove, was recognized as a standout entry in the Don’t Move, Improve 2024 competition for its vibrancy, energy efficiency, and character. This year, the contest received an impressive 150 submissions. Here are all the winners.
Don’t Move, Improve 2025: the winners
Home of the Year & Materiality and Craftmanship Prize: Elemental House by Archmongers Architects
Archmongers’ Elemental House redesigns a 1970s terraced property in London’s Hackney into a functional, light-filled, Scandinavian-inspired family home.
Environmental Prize: Nina’s House by Nina+Co with ROAR
Textures and natural materials make this house in South Tottenham a real sanctuary, with improved air tightness and an open-plan approach.
Transformation Prize & Best Kitchen Design: Steel House by EBBA Architects
EBBA architects’ Camden house renovation and double-height extension transform life in a London terraced home.
Compact Design Prize: Hartley House by THISS Studio
An eco-conscious reimagining of a Victorian terraced home for a growing London family, THISS Studio’s Hartley House is a celebration of sustainable, spacious living.
Cost Effective Prize: Hands-on Home by Natallia Tanko
This is a bold Lewisham self-build project that gradually extended and renovated a 1970s ground-floor flat.
Best Interior Design & Best Outdoor Space: RAW House by O’Sullivan Skoufoglou Architects
A Lambeth home is reimagined for its owners’ current need for a hybrid work/live space through a softly textured material palette.
People’s Choice Award: Terzetto by ConForm Architects
Terzetto is a 97.7 sq m two-bedroom lower-ground flat in a four-storey Victorian mansion block. It has the classic bay window onto the street, and its own big garden at the back.
📅 Published on: 2025-02-25
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Note: This article was reviewed and edited by the ArchUp editorial team to ensure accuracy and quality.
