Some of York's innovative and distinctive new and converted buildings were honoured at the inaugural York Design Award ceremony last night (10 May).

Initiated by The Lord Mayor of York, Mrs Janet Hopton, the awards have been organised in partnership with the York Civic Trust, English Heritage, City of York Council, York Professional Initiative, Guild of Building, York Archaeological Trust, Consortium of Conservationists, and local architects.

Launched last November, the competition was open to all new build and conservation, conversion and landscape developments within the City of York Council boundary, completed between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2006.

Over 41 entries were judged by an independent panel with expertise in architecture, planning, sustainability, and conservation, and the judging criteria included sustainability issues, landscaping, lay-out and context.

Ken Powell, chair of the judges said: "The standard of entries was very high and covered a wide variety of buildings. It is essential for York that the integrity and quality of the built environment is preserved and I hope this award will continue to raise awareness and encourage high standards of design as the city develops."

The award was sponsored by Yorkshire Bank, Mulberry Hall and Blenkin & Co.

The winners are:
Domestic: 18, Bootham   
Architects: Jonothan Hankin, PRA Architects  
Clients: Mr A Mayfield & Ms A Hullick

Residential: Morrell Cottages 
Architects: Richard Parkin
Client:  York Conservation Trust

Residential: Moss Street   
Architects: Ric Blenkharn
Client:  Yorkshire Housing

Commercial: Ouse Acres   
Architects: Lawrence Hannah Surveyors
Client: Helmsley Group

Conservation: Sarah Coggels Shop  
Architects: Carey Jones     
Client: 'Sarah Coggles' - Mr Mark Bage

Conservation: Roc Bunker   
Architects: Wiles and Maguire    
Client: English Heritage

Mixed Commercial/ Residential/Conservation:
Winner: Merchant Exchange  
Architect: Crease Strickland Parkins   
Client: Helmsley Group

Winner:62 - 68 Low Petergate 
Architect: Malcolm Payne Group   
Client: George Houlton & Sons Holdings Ltd