Libby Watts was named as Young Architect of the Year for 2025 for her work on St Mary's Church in Turville.
The 12th century church is in the Chilterns and is known for being picturesque, attracting tv and film productions. The exterior of the church was the filming location for Dibley Parish Church in the BBC’s Vicar of Dibley.
©AndySillett&EASA
Libby, Director of Liberty Rose Architects, said: "I am delighted to have won the Ecclesiastical Architects & Surveyors Association (EASA) and National Churches Trust Young Architect of the Year at the Church Architecture Awards! It is a privilege to work on such incredible buildings with such amazing craftspeople and to have been recognised for my work is brilliant- I am thrilled. Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me- I look forward to continuing my work"
The award highlights the talent of an architect or surveyor under the age of 40 who was responsible for a scheme entered in either the King of Prussia Gold Medal Award or the Presidents' Award categories.
Emily Jackson, Church Buildings Officer at the Diocese of Oxford, said: "Massive congratulations to Libby. She worked closely with both the parish and the Church Buildings Team to identify the needs of St Mary's while making sure that all works followed best building conservation practice and used traditional materials. This project has helped to make sure that this beautiful building is in good condition and equipped to serve the community into the future. This award is very well deserved."
St Mary’s Church, Turville, is Grade II* listed with historic fabric dating back to the 12th century. An inspection in 2022 highlighted that there were several areas of the building that needed repair and upgrade. The works were extensive:
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Replacement of the lead on the tower roof and associated timber repairs
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Cement render replaced with lime render to prevent internal damp
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New lighting, electrics, and heating throughout
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Redecoration and plaster repairs
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Installation of a new disabled W/C
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Re-roofing of several clay tile roofs and patch repairs
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Targeted repointing and stone repairs, along with multiple glass repairs
The north porch saw some of the most transformative work, where the cement render was removed and the timber frame and brick infill panels discovered under the render were carefully repaired. Every element was treated with sensitivity to the building’s heritage, ensuring that St Mary’s is now in excellent condition for worship and community use.
This project is a beautiful example of how careful conservation can enhance the history, beauty, and life of a parish church for generations to come.
