Iconic building designs and conservation work are enhancing the character of a thriving part of Suffolk.

Seven outstanding architectural projects were celebrated at an awards evening to mark the effort being made by people to add to the quality of the environment by helping conserve historic buildings, landscape or nature, or introducing new innovative designs.

The fourth annual Quality of Place awards ceremony was held in Suffolk Coastal’s council chamber in Melton Hill, Woodbridge, where prizes were awarded to the best projects in the district.

Councillor Veronica Falconer, who chaired the panel of judges, said: “There is growing awareness of the positive impact high quality design and conservation can have on the local environment.

“As a council, Suffolk Coastal is committed to encouraging innovative design and work that helps conserve the best of our district.

“These awards are our opportunity to spotlight some of the excellent efforts being made locally.

“The quality of the work being done locally can be judged by the fact that projects from this district often go on to win national awards or accolades.

“The Quality of Place awards help focus attention on what is being achieved in Suffolk Coastal and encourages others to follow these examples of best practice.

“Once again, it was a difficult but enjoyable task for our experienced panel of judges to come up with the winners and highly commended projects, as there were some outstanding examples to choose from.”

Judges this year were councillor Veronica Falconer, architectural expert Peter Wells, member of Suffolk RIBA, Fiona Cairns, director of Suffolk Preservation Society, and Peter Hill, of The Aldeburgh Society.

All the categories were judged on quality of design and detailing, quality workmanship, materials, and sustainability.