AN architect has been nominated for a prestigious award for the design of a school sports and performing arts centre in Worcester.

The Keyes Building at King's, Worcester, is one of 12 projects shortlisted for the RIBA West Midlands Awards 2017, considered the benchmark for the best standards in architecture.

It is the second time the same architect, John Christophers of Birmingham-based Associated Architects LLP, has been nominated for an award for the design of a building on behalf of the Worcester school.

The Michael Baker Boathouse won the RIBA West Midlands Award in 2013.

The Keyes Building, named after former headmaster Tim Keyes, opened in June, 2015.

It incorporates a new sports hall and fitness suite, a three-storey indoor climbing wall, two dance and drama studios, an outdoor sculpture gallery, a sixth form centre with meeting and seminar rooms and extensive new teaching facilities.

Mr Christophers said the building was the culmination of a 20 year vision by the school and had opened up views of Worcester Cathedral which had previously been obscured by buildings and trees.

He said: "We may be modern architects but we still love old buildings as well as modern ones."

The low energy building uses solar panels and super insulation to make it more efficient while the curved shape follows the line of bronze age defences.

Mr Christophers said: "It's not just an architectural whim but refers right back to the history of the site over 3,000 years ago."

For over 50 years the RIBA awards and prizes have championed and celebrated the best architecture in the UK and around the world, no matter the form, size or budget.

Successful projects may reflect changes and innovations in architecture, but at their core they display a commitment to designing and developing buildings and spaces for the improvement and enhancement of people’s lives.

Natalia Maximova, Chair of the Judging Panel commented: “This year’s shortlist includes a healthy range of projects from a chapel restoration to a new car manufacturing centre, which demonstrates a high design standard across the sectors. There are some unusual takes on conservation, as well as unique building types.

"All are so different and all have merits worthy of a jury’s visit. The jury are now keen to meet the project teams and their clients – both well-known and newly-established names."

All shortlisted buildings will be assessed by a regional jury and the winners of RIBA West Midlands Awards will be announced on May 15 at a celebration evening at the Park Regis, Birmingham.

RIBA Awards have been running continuously since 1966.