YAPF North East Awards 2025
December 02, 2025
The RIBA Young Architectural Practitioners Forum hosted their annual Young Professionals Awards in Newcastle. The event brought together emerging designers and apprentices from across the region, and it was wonderful to see so many members of our team recognised for the quality and character of their work.
Catherine Sinclair received the Future Leader Award, building on what has already been a transformative year in her career. Her leadership of our research activity, particularly the development of D-CARB, has shifted how we understand carbon from the earliest stages of design. Catherine’s influence reaches well beyond the studio; she brings scientific rigour into conversations about architecture in a way that empowers others, and her recognition as a future leader feels very fitting.
Rob Gibson was Highly Commended in the same category. Rob’s leadership sits quietly within the practice, yet its impact is unmistakable. His steadiness on projects such as Woodham Academy and Thornhill Academy has supported teams through complex design decisions, and he is widely appreciated for his willingness to guide, listen and bring calm to demanding stages of delivery.
Liam Clerkin was named Designer of the Year for a body of work that reflects both sensitivity and ambition. His approach to the Farrell Centre and STEAM Studios demonstrates how thoughtful detailing and a deep respect for context can shape projects that feel both grounded and inventive. Liam brings a rare blend of clarity and imagination, and it was encouraging to see this acknowledged so strongly on the night.
“I’m really honoured to receive this award. Working on projects like the Farrell Centre has been a hugely enjoyable experience, and I’ve learned a great deal from the those involved. I’m especially grateful to Chris Holmes for his guidance and encouragement always. This recognition means a lot, and I’m looking forward to continuing to build on the work we’ve started.”
Liam Clerkin
Senior Architect, SPACE Architects
Brook Wilkinson received a Highly Commended for Apprentice of the Year. Brook has grown with remarkable pace, balancing technical coordination, BIM delivery and project organisation across several major school schemes. She has an ability to move confidently between detail and strategy, and a natural readiness to support others. Brook represents the very best of apprenticeship in practice: inquisitive, dependable and ambitious.
We were equally proud to see several colleagues shortlisted across further categories. Tom Balsdon earned a place on the Apprentice of the Year list for his thoughtful and committed approach to projects across Darlington and Stockton. Charlie Kay was acknowledged for his collaborative mindset, known for clear communication and an ability to strengthen relationships on site and within the studio. Hannah Rolfe was highlighted in the Culture Champion category for her considered engagement with heritage and her voluntary work with the Newcastle Conservation Advisory Panel. And Matthew Turnbull was named among the contenders in the Architectural Creativity category, admired for his design work that unites research with expressive drawing and a strong sense of place.
"What stands out to me isn’t just the talent we see recognised here, but the character of the individuals themselves. I’m proud of the awards our team has received, but I’m even prouder of who they are."They bring energy, passion and curiosity into the studio every day, and our culture is richer because of it.
Rob Charlton
CEO, SPACE Architects
A huge thank you to the YAPF North East Committee for hosting another excellent evening. Our young professionals always enjoy attending, and it is encouraging to be part of a regional community that continues to support and celebrate emerging designers.
Photography courtesy of the RIBA YAPF North East and photographer Jessica Lovell.