Newham celebrates as two Affordable Homes for Newham schemes are shortlisted for the 2026 RIBA London Awards, adding to seven borough projects also recognised by the Pineapple Awards.
Newham is celebrating regional recognition after two Affordable Homes for Newham schemes were shortlisted for the 2026 RIBA London Awards, with winners announced in Spring 2026. The borough has already delivered 855 genuinely affordable homes through its Affordable Homes for Newham programme and will reach its target of 1,000 new council homes by early 2027 - providing high-quality, energy-efficient homes local residents can afford.
This adds to a major moment for the borough, with seven Newham projects now shortlisted across the 2026 Pineapple Awards and the 2026 RIBA London Awards - two of the UK’s leading awards celebrating excellence in architecture, regeneration and community placemaking.
Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz OBE, said: "I'm thrilled that Newham has secured a massive seven shortlisting's across two of the most prestigious architectural and placemaking awards in the UK. My congratulations to the Newham Inclusive Economy team and Populo Living. This recognition reflects our long-term commitment to building homes our people can afford and a lasting legacy of opportunity, with thriving neighbourhoods for all our residents. "
The shortlisted Newham schemes:
Noele Gordon House – Affordable Homes for Newham
Architect: Mæ for Newham Council
Our first 100% affordable Later Living scheme made up of 75 1- and 2-bedroom Council homes for over 55s in the heart of East Ham is setting a new benchmark for inclusive, community-led housing.
The scheme supports independence, connection and wellbeing through thoughtful design, following HAPPI principles, featuring future proofed apartments, generous communal spaces, a rooftop terrace and an NHS health centre on the ground floor.
Plashet Road – Affordable Homes for Newham
Architect: Levitt Bernstein for Newham Council
Plashet Road is Newham’s first Passivhaus-standard development, delivering 65 genuinely affordable new homes for residents, including 75% family-sized homes and wheelchair-accessible homes, alongside a new nursery.
The modern Council homes are built to be highly energy-efficient, meaning warmer homes, lower energy bills, better air quality and reduced damp and mould, helping families live more comfortably and affordably.
Part of Newham’s Affordable Homes programme, Plashet Road supports the borough’s commitment to delivering high-quality, future-proofed homes residents can afford, while tackling the housing crisis and building sustainable neighbourhoods for the future.
All shortlisted projects will be visited by the RIBA regional jury, with winners announced in May 2026. Notably, the RIBA London East category also includes major projects such as Sadler’s Wells East and UCL East, meaning five shortlisted projects are located in Newham, highlighting the borough’s growing reputation for design quality and delivery.
Newham continues to gain national recognition for delivering better homes, stronger neighbourhoods and lasting community value. Residents can stay up to date via Council social channels or learn more on the RIBA website.
