Blenheim Palace's extensive £2 million restoration of its historic 18th-century Orangery has been honoured with a prestigious architecture award.

The Orangery, which reopened in October 2023, was among the top recipients at the 2025 RIBA South Architecture Awards ceremony in Hampshire.

The vital restoration work involved replacing the glass ceiling with timber and slate, reverting to its original design. Blenheim Palace collaborated closely with Nick Cox Architects and Historic England to ensure that all work and materials were sympathetic to Vanbrugh's initial architectural vision. This project is believed to be the first reinstatement programme of its kind on a Grade 1 Listed building, addressing the natural end of life for the 19th-century glass roof, which was last restored in the 1970s.


Kelly O'Driscoll, Head of Built Heritage at Blenheim Palace, credited the award to the entire project team, especially Nick Cox Architects, and acknowledged the crucial support from visitors whose donations made the restoration possible. Phoebe Gresford, Architect at Nick Cox Architects, expressed honour, stating the award "reflects the visionary approach to the project and the dedication of the multi-disciplinary team." The Blenheim Palace Orangery was one of six winners at the awards, alongside notable projects such as Eton College Hall.

View the complete list of winners.