Since 1995, the Manchester Society of Architects Awards have been held annually to recognise buildings that have made a positive contribution to the local environment, as well as individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the architectural profession. These awards raise the profile of Manchester’s architecture and offer an inclusive, cross-industry event that reflects the quality of the community’s work.
The 2025 award ceremony was held at the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester and was attended by over 500 individuals from across the construction industry. The awards are a celebration of excellence in the region, bringing together Manchester’s architectural community for a night of commendation and inspiration.
The event was particularly special for us as a practice, as it saw Co-Founding Partner Ian Simpson awarded with the Outstanding Contribution Award.
Ian Simpson, educated at Liverpool Polytechnic, co-founded SimpsonHaugh with Rachel Haugh in 1987. The practice now operates internationally from its studios in Manchester, London, and Birmingham.
Ian has played an integral role in building the practice's strong project portfolio and reputation as leading urban and civic architects. He is a passionate advocate of revitalising cities, using contemporary architectural language and high-quality design to create sustainable, and viable propositions which engender a sense of community through identity, and act as symbols of civic pride, confidence, and ambition.
Ian was honoured to receive the Outstanding Contribution Award at the MSA Awards. The award was presented by Glenn Howells – Founder of Howells and long-standing friend of SimpsonHaugh – who also judged this year’s project awards. A video tribute was also shared, curated by architectural commentator Phil Griffin, with kind words shared by long-standing collaborators of the practice, adding a personal touch to the occasion. The video is available to view below.
The winner of the Outstanding Contribution Award is selected by the society for recognition of the exceptional contribution that person has made. It is a celebration of not just individual talent and hard work, but of visionary design, innovative thinking, and a profound commitment to enhancing the built environment in the city region. We are thrilled as a practice to see Ian receive the award, and we would like to congratulate all the 2025 category winners.