Royal William Yard's Mills Bakery building has been crowned winner of the Mixed Use category at the 2025 Architecture Today Awards – a fitting celebration during the Yard's 200th anniversary year.

The awards, announced on 13th November at Space House London, recognise buildings that have truly stood the test of time. Unlike many architecture prizes, projects must have been in use for at least three years, with judges looking for buildings that deliver on their environmental, functional, community and cultural ambitions over the long term.

Mills Bakery, restored by Urban Splash and Gillespie Yunnie Architects, certainly fits that brief. The Grade I listed building – constructed between 1825 and 1831 as the beating heart of this historic Naval victualling yard – was transformed in 2010 into a thriving mixed-use space.

Today, it's home to 86 apartments alongside retail and office spaces, all carefully woven into the building's extraordinary heritage.

The judges were clearly moved by what's been achieved here: "A 200 year-old nationally important building that was running out of time, has been magnificently restored thanks to the integrity and creativity of its new custodians. Regeneration at its finest."

That restoration wasn't straightforward. The project retained as much original fabric as possible, repairing timber floors, cast iron columns, and that distinctive chimney while addressing fire safety, accessibility, and natural light challenges. The building's historic oven rooms now power a centralised heating system, while two open atriums bring light and connection to residents and businesses alike.

Now, 15 years on, Mills Bakery continues to prove that heritage buildings can thrive as contemporary spaces; comfortable, sustainable, and full of character. It's a story of regeneration done right, and we couldn't be prouder to see that recognised.

Next time you visit, take a look at our very own awards wall as you enter Royal William Yard - through the arch and under the colonnade on the right - to see how much we have to celebrate.