The Royal Institute of British Architects’ (RIBA) Competitions division and Islington Council have announced that Pollard Thomas Edwards Architects has been selected as the winners of a design competition for the new Finsbury Leisure Centre at St Luke's Area in South Islington, London.

The winning proposal, chosen from a shortlist featuring 5 top architects including Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners and Grimshaw Architects, will reinvigorate the site with new council homes, improved public space and a new civic building that will house recreation, childcare, healthcare and energy facilities all under one roof.

"The five shortlisted designs had been anonymously displayed at the Finsbury Library until May 23rd, giving locals the opportunity to share their comments on the schemes. Ultimately, the council judging panel though Pollard Thomas Edwards’ solution provided “the most creative and forward thinking ideas for the new civic building.”

The new development will feature an engaging street presence, offering views into recreational and leisure facilities, while the recreation center’s sawtooth roof will allow natural light to fill community spaces. The architects will now continue working with the community to finalize strategies and implement the designs.