Awards for works completed in the two years to 30th April 2010 were presented at the Annual General Meeting on 19th May 2010

The choice of developments that merit an award is based on an assessment not only of their excellence of design and execution, but how well they contribute to the local environment and the improvement of the amenities in the area in and around Farnham. They will help to bring a new sense of enjoyment to living in the town. In presenting the awards, it is hoped to demonstrate that the Society is not entirely negative in its attitude to the changes and developments taking place. Despite its occasional criticisms, some are wholly welcomed and appreciated

The Society has carefully considered all of the developments which have been completed during the last two years and congratulates those responsible for commissioning and creating the following award-winning schemes.

(Award to The Museum of Farnham)

This addition to the Museum which provided a much needed replacement for a shabby old building provides a facility for use as an educational centre as well as a new venue for cultural activities including meetings, workshops, lectures and exhibitions. The design is a beautiful timber-framed pavilion with a low-pitched pyramidal roof overhanging a wide decked veranda. Its metal roof complements the warm stained oak framing of the continuous glazing, and the posts supporting the roof edge.

The gabled roof shelters the entrance, which has a foyer that can give independent access to the gallery space. A folding partition divides it from the main space, allowing a large lecture room to be created. The WC, kitchen and storage are located on the opposite side, of the building, where a door leads to the garden. School classes can easily be conducted inside or out. The plan is an excellent example of practical layout, simplicity of construction and attractive proportions. The design was the work of architect Arthur Gomez.

The beautiful garden setting has been thoughtfully designed to provide opportunities for evocative and educational planting ideas, as well as stimulating the younger visitors’ interest in the flora and fauna.

Award to The Maltings

The removal of walls in the foyer to the great hall has opened up vistas to reveal the dramatic white painted brick vaulting and old windows openings, adding an increased sense of space to the lower level foyer. It has allowed the creation of an additional straight flight of stairs and a platform lift for disabled persons to reach the lower level and access the great hall. The foyer bar has been replaced by a greatly improved, more compact and elegant layout, without losing the serving space. A new kitchen is being provided for the riverside bar, where a new serving counter is awaited.

Award to Farnham Town Council,

Architect: Michael Blower

Now Farnham has at last somehere to relax and listen to a band performing. A new bandstand now forms a focal point in this popular green space. Although it is a standard manufacturer’s product, we feel it has captured the essential character of the Victorian cast iron bandstand. Its slender decorative green columns support the polygonal concave pointed metal roof, and balustrades surround the musicians. Gostrey meadow is now complete and is the place to come and enjoy a musical entertainment.

Award to Suzanne Lemieux and Marios Pantelli

After retaining the shell of the old building in the Old Kiln Courtyard off the Borough, a new upper floor and staircase was constructed under the original roof timbers. Complete with a tiny kitchen, its white walls and comfortable furniture, serve as a small art gallery with a domestic ambiance. The Barn is now a creative arts club situated in the centre of Farnham. It has become an out of the ordinary music venue, organic cafe/bar, and is open to the public during the day and to members only in the evenings. It is a meeting place for people with new ideas, and a platform for new artistic talent. It is approached through the tree-shaded courtyard where al

fresco drinks and food are served. It is a place to have fresh, organic wholesome food and nourishing conversation. The Barn is welcomed for its eco friendly ethos and community spirit.

Award to Jenkins & Falvey, Refurbishment Contractors

Sadly neglected by the PCT, after having been previously repaired and owned by the Farnham Trust, and after being threatened with demolition by Bellway Homes, this terrace of three Victorian houses was saved by a planning refusal, and finally acquired by an imaginative developer who saw the need to restore their potential elegance and simplicity.

Award to Waverley Borough Council,

Architect: Elspeth Beard

The Park Lodge has been greatly improved by conversion into a ranger's office, with accommodation and a covered interpretation area funded by S106 contributions from developers. The building has been clad with cedar to give it a more contemporary appearance and to improve insulation. Outside, a canopy of arched wood beams with a green living sedum roof provides shelter for an interpretation area. Visitors can learn more about the Park from the explanatory boards fitted under it. Inside the old gas-fired water and space heating system has been replaced by a wood-fired system, using locally supplied wood and supplemented by solar thermal panels.