Boardwalk in architectural hall of fame

Bondholder Mercia Marina's beautiful Boardwalk development has received significant recognition in the LABC Building Excellence Awards.

Named as the Best Small Commercial Building, the Boardwalk complex was recognised for its team having gone to impressive lengths including the production of a brand new type of timber cladding to achieve the rough and time-worn appearance which was required.

The £1.7 million development which consists of boutique shops and offices with a two-storey bar and restaurant beat the likes of the Serpentine Sackler Gallery in London which was designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid.

Robert Neff, General Manager at Mercia Marina, commented: 'We are truly overwhelmed to not only have won the regional award but to have gone up against some hugely iconic competition to take the national award too. It's a stunning achievement. This is great recognition for all the careful thought and hard work that went into constructing a building that, first and foremost, needed to sit comfortably within the natural environment of the marina.'

Chief Executive of LABC Paul Everall said: 'This project is an excellent example of how a building can reflect the environmental context in which it is located. The result is a beautiful building that encompasses sympathetic and innovative design in addition to providing excellent facilities to the area.'