The Patron’s Award – Winnocks and Kendalls Almshouse Charity

The Patron’s Award was instituted by HRH The Prince of Wales and introduced in 2000 to encourage and celebrate excellence in architectural and living standards and to recognise outstanding projects and developments. It is sponsored by The Charity Bank and recipient of the award is chosen by HRH The Prince of Wales

Winnocks and Kendalls Almshouse Charity, Colchester, Essex

The trustees of Winnocks and Kendalls Almshouse Charity made the decision to demolish nine bungalows endowed by George Rose in 1934 as the properties were no longer fit for purpose and had been empty for several years. The buildings were poorly laid out internally, had an inefficient heating system and had suffered damage through subsidence. In 2015 the charity received planning permission to replace the old bungalows with nine new, modern almshouses.

The new almshouses are in keeping but not identical to the early twentieth-century almshouses adjacent and opposite, and so maintain the integrity, authenticity and pre-eminence of the listed terrace.

Each apartment is light and airy with an open plan kitchen and living room. The kitchens are fully fitted and there is level access throughout the property. Wet rooms have been installed and allow for the use of a hoist should these become necessary for the residents. A new call system has been installed, which is not reliant on a landline phone system. Internal detailing throughout is ideal for almshouse accommodation.