A new build by previously ‘unknown’ Swansea architects has been awarded the Plaque of Merit at the Blaenau Gwent 2010 National Eisteddfod of Wales (Ebbw Vale, 31 July – 7 August 2010). Pennard House by Hyde + Hyde was fully deserving of the accolade, said the selectors Prof. Bill Davies and Prof. Malcolm Parry.

“It was a pleasure to be introduced to the work of the architects Hyde + Hyde, who were previously unknown to us. They have developed their own distinctive modern approach to domestic architecture mainly in renovations and extensions to houses in the Swansea area.

The new project, built in a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, was inspired by local barns and the impressive sunsets of its Gower location. A strong empahasis was given to the horizontal coursing of the building in order to reduce its scale and accentuate its relationship with the horizon. Through its plan, the form metaphorically embraces the sun with its arms outstretched, opening westwards, said the architects who believe “that tradition myst develop and evolve in order to survive”.

“With Pennard House, Hyde + Hyde have had the opportunity to build a completely new house in a sensitive setting on the Gower Peninsula,” said Bill Daives and Malcolm Parry. “Here working with the guidance of a sympathetic planning authority and within the local context, they and their totally involved clients have produced and uncompromisingly modern, courtyard house. Beautifully detailed it contains all the elements of the architects’ personal style; elegant aesthetic composition, spare subtle detail, careful integration of interior and exterior space and sensitive response to daylight and quality materials.

The aim of this award is to draw attention to the importance of architecture in the nation's culture and to honour architects achieving the highest design standards. With the Plaque of Merit, architects were invited to submit either new projects or refurbishment projects constructed in Wales and completed between 2007 and 2010, that enhance the environment and whose final account did not exceed £750,000.

The National Eisteddfod of Wales’ architecture awards and exhibition are realised in conjunction with the Royal Society of Architects in Wales.