Architects recognised in Queen’s Birthday Honours

A host of high-profile architects have been recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Steve Tompkins of Haworth Tompkins, Peter Barber from his eponymous social housing practice, Bryden Wood director Jaimie Johnston and author, academic and architect Sumita Singha have all been honoured.

Barber and Singha, who is the director of London-based practice Ecologic Architects, were handed OBEs for services to architecture, while Tompkins was made an MBE for services to both architecture and the arts.

Johnston, who was handed his MBE for services to construction, said: “I've always been incredibly passionate about the design and construction sector; working hard to promote and achieve progress, so this means a huge amount to me.

“It reminds me that, although we have a long way to go, it's important to recognise the enormous progress we've made.”

Meanwhile, Claire Higgins, chief executive of housing association Cross Key Homes, was awarded an MBE for services to housing.

Elma Newbury, assistant director land & strategic regeneration services at the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, also received an MBE, with her recognition coming for services to housing in Northern Ireland and her contribution to reconciliation.

Civil engineer David Churcher, director and principal consultant at Essex-based Hitherwood Consulting, has also been made an MBE for his services to construction, while Rosemary Ley of Surrey became a medallist of the Order of the British Empire for her services to building safety.