The cottage, which stands on Cromford Canal near Lea Bridge in Derbyshire, is one of the 13-strong collection of success stories built on community engagement, sustainable builds and an ability to make the most of limited budgets that make up this year’s MacEwen Award shortlist.

Aqueduct Cottage has been shortlisted in the Heritage Renewal category of the MacEwan Awards, an annual competition recognising architecture for the common good now in its ninth edition.

In partnership with Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust and James Boon Architects, Aqueduct Cottage, located next to the Trust’s Lea Wood Nature Reserve along the Cromford Canal, was lovingly and carefully restored with over 7,500 hours of work from dedicated volunteers.  

Restoration work included a new roof, stabilising and repointing walls, new floors and tiling, installing an upstairs exhibition and community space, and creating wildlife friendly gardens. The space is now open to the public and is used for workshops and events.

Speaking about the project, last year’s MacEwen winner and judge Alex Scott-Whitby said:

“Something about this got me from the first page. You can tell there is a really strong relationship between all these different groups…there is a generosity in this project which is really powerful.”

 Lisa Witham, Director of Wilder Communities at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust said:  

“Aqueduct Cottage provides an important gateway to Lea Wood Nature Reserve and the wider Derwent landscape, and now welcomes visitors to enjoy this historic building and showcase more about the area and its wildlife.   

“This project would not have been possible without the hard work of our passionate volunteers and the generous donations of our supporters and members. Our hope is to continue making this a place for people to enjoy for years to come.”  

The winners will be announced on the RIBA Journal website on 29 and 30 January. Find out more about Aqueduct Cottage here.