House & Home
Mon, December 1, 2025
Bath Launches BotB House Design Competition for a New Iconic Landmark
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Published in House and Home on Monday, December 1st 2025 at 7:36 GMT by The Scotsman- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Bath’s latest design competition – a new “BotB House” for the city
In a move that has captured the imagination of both architects and residents alike, the City of Bath has announced a competition to design the highly‑anticipated “BotB House” – a new landmark building that will sit at the heart of the historic spa town. The competition, officially titled the BotB House PS1 Bath Competition, is part of a broader strategy to blend modern architecture with Bath’s iconic Georgian heritage while meeting the city’s growing demand for sustainable, mixed‑use development.
What the competition is all about
The competition, run by Bath City Council in partnership with the private developer BotB Properties, invites architects, landscape designers, and interdisciplinary teams to submit proposals that will re‑imagine the vacant site near the River Avon. The site, currently a derelict industrial block, offers a unique opportunity to create a mixed‑use building that could include residential units, office space, cultural venues, and public gardens. The council’s goal is to generate a design that respects Bath’s architectural legacy while embracing contemporary trends in environmental performance and urban livability.
Participants are required to produce a concept design, a site plan, and a brief written statement explaining how their proposal addresses key themes such as:
- Sustainability: Use of renewable materials, energy‑efficient systems, and strategies to reduce the building’s carbon footprint.
- Public accessibility: Incorporation of open spaces and community facilities that encourage social interaction.
- Cultural integration: Design elements that reference Bath’s Roman baths, Georgian façades, and modern artistic sensibilities.
- Economic viability: A balanced mix of affordable housing, commercial space, and revenue‑generating amenities.
The competition is open to firms and individuals worldwide, but there is a strong emphasis on involving local talent to foster community investment and maintain the character of the city.
The judging panel and prize
The judging panel comprises a blend of industry experts, local heritage professionals, and representatives from BotB Properties. Notable members include Dr. Eleanor Hughes, a professor of architectural history at the University of Bath; John Martin, CEO of BotB Properties; and Councillor Claire Wilson, who heads the City Council’s Planning and Development Committee.
The top prize is a substantial £15,000 monetary award, in addition to the opportunity for the winning design to be developed on site. Secondary prizes of £5,000 each will be awarded for the best proposals in the categories of sustainability, public space, and cultural integration. In a bid to encourage wider participation, the competition also offers a “People’s Choice” award, which will be voted on by local residents.
Timeline and submission guidelines
The competition opened on 1 April 2025, with the final deadline set for 30 June 2025. Proposals must be submitted in digital format (PDF) via the official competition website. Teams are required to include a brief portfolio showcasing previous work that demonstrates expertise in sustainable design, heritage conservation, or large‑scale mixed‑use projects.
After the initial review, the shortlisted entries will be invited to present their proposals at a public exhibition held at the Bath Library on 15 July. Public feedback will be collected, and the final decision will be announced on 31 July, with the winning design slated for formal development by early 2026.
Why the BotB House matters
Bath’s economy has long benefited from tourism, but the city’s population has grown rapidly in recent years. The lack of modern housing and commercial space has forced many residents to look to neighbouring towns for work or accommodation. BotB House is intended to address this gap by creating a vibrant hub that will serve residents and visitors alike.
The developer, BotB Properties, has a reputation for innovative projects that marry commercial success with social responsibility. Their portfolio includes the award‑winning Riverfront Offices in Cardiff and the Greenhouse mixed‑use complex in Manchester. By partnering with Bath City Council, they hope to leverage the city’s cultural prestige to create a flagship project that will set new standards for sustainable development in historic settings.
Community reaction
Early responses from Bath residents have been largely positive. Local heritage advocate Margaret Larkin tweeted, “I’m thrilled to see a competition that respects our heritage while looking forward. It’s a chance for the city to grow without losing its soul.” Meanwhile, the Chamber of Commerce expressed interest in the potential for new retail and office spaces to boost local businesses.
The competition also reflects a broader trend in the UK towards “design for good” – projects that aim to deliver not only architectural innovation but also social, economic, and environmental benefits. By inviting public participation and ensuring that the winning design is both functional and iconic, Bath’s leaders hope to set a benchmark for other cities facing similar development challenges.
Looking ahead
If the competition proceeds as planned, the BotB House could become one of Bath’s most significant architectural achievements in the 21st century. Beyond its practical uses, the building promises to serve as a symbol of the city’s ability to adapt and thrive, marrying its celebrated past with a sustainable, inclusive future. Residents and visitors alike will have the opportunity to experience a new, dynamic space that honors Bath’s heritage while embracing modernity.
As the deadline approaches, the architectural community is watching with anticipation. The winning proposal will not only shape the physical landscape of Bath but also illustrate how thoughtful design can foster community, culture, and commerce all at once.
Read the Full The Scotsman Article at:
[ https://www.scotsman.com/recommended/botb-house-ps1-bath-competition-5424212 ]
