Retirement day care facility John Morden Centre in London has won the top architecture award in the UK.

Blackheath’s Stirling Prize 2023 jury praised the building’s use of sustainable materials.

Riba judges praised its design, which they said was a good example of how to “raise the bar in social healthcare”.

A House for Artists and the Faculty of Arts at the University of Warwick were among its rivals.

Housing shortages and rising wealth disparities are two examples of social problems addressed in the six buildings.

President Muyiwa Oki of Riba said: “These six remarkable buildings offer thoughtful, creative responses to the really complex challenges we face in the 21st century.

“These projects tackle loneliness, build communities, and protect our heritage with bold blueprints for purposeful architecture.”

A 300-year-old Grade One-listed residential and nursing home, Morden College, was converted into the John Morden Center.

The building complements existing historical buildings dating back to the 17th century. Sir Christopher Wren is credited with designing the almshouse and chapel at St Paul’s Cathedral.

Care and social spaces are housed in a series of red brick “pavilions” connected by a central timber “cloister”.

As part of its socialization program, it offers residents a variety of amenities such as an art room, a hair salon, a nail bar, and an events space. Thus, healthier and longer lives are supported.