We’re proud to announce that AWW, a southwest-based architecture and interior design firm, has become the first UK practice to achieve the Social Value Quality Mark Gold award — setting a new benchmark for social value in the built environment.
Now in its 50th year, AWW has embedded social value into the decisions, designs and culture that shape its work. From inclusive placemaking to youth engagement and employee ownership, the practice demonstrates what it means to build with purpose.
Our auditor noted AWW’s long-standing partnership with Design West’s award-winning Shape My City programme. This year, 30 students took part and were led by AWW Interior Designers and Architects through a two-hour design journey. They were asked to re-imagine a workplace to help open doors for 15–18-year-olds who might not otherwise have access to a career in the built environment. By nurturing young talent from all backgrounds, Shape My City equips participants with the skills and confidence to shape their futures, and their cities.
Another highlight was AWW’s exemplary approach to collaboration. For example, on the Mary Ward Centre project – a landmark adult learning facility in London – a strong collaboration between the client and AWW’s Structural Engineer ensured the building reflected local character and instilled a sense of belonging.
Huw Evans, Director of Quality at SVQM CIC, says:
“AWW’s achievement of Gold highlights their commitment to designing places that truly serve people. Their exemplary approach to inclusive placemaking and community wellbeing embeds social value into the fabric of our built environment.”
Heather Lavis, AWW’s Social Value Lead, adds:
“We hold ourselves accountable to the way we operate — environmentally, socially and culturally. Becoming an Employee-Owned Trust in 2023 gave our team greater ownership and opened up new pathways for leadership. Our journey to Gold is a celebration of that.”
Why the Gold Award matters
The announcement coincides with central government’s Social Value Model (PPN02) taking full effect on 1 October 2025. Organisations working with the public sector are now legally required to factor social outcomes into contract awards. For central government contracts, this accounts for a minimum of 10%, however in many cases, the weighting on social value can be worth 30% or more. Firms who fail to demonstrate measurable social value risk losing out on valuable contracts for public infrastructure.
Meanwhile, talented jobseekers and conscientious customers are increasingly ‘voting with their feet’ – choosing to work for and spend money with companies that create a positive impact.
The Gold award is a prestigious achievement which assesses strategy, governance and real-word impact. It is a strong signal of trust for stakeholders and commissioners, in this case demonstrating how architecture can lead the way in shaping a more inclusive, resilient future.
