As joint sponsors of the Housing category at the NLA Awards 2026, we've reviewed a shortlist that reflects some of the very best housing being delivered across London. The NLA says the shortlist supports the New London Agenda's Six Pillars of Placemaking, and the themes below map closely to them.

1. Plan for future generations: affordable housing remains the priority 

Affordable housing remains central to London's development agenda, which speaks to Plan for future generations. The majority of the 13 shortlisted schemes are council, social rent or affordable housing developments, demonstrating the sector's determination to meet housing needs whilst delivering high-quality places. Success is no longer measured simply by numbers, but by the quality, longevity, social value and environmental performance of the homes and communities delivered. 

2. Leverage innovation: the toughest sites are driving the best solutions 

Some of the most impressive projects have emerged from the most challenging sites, and unlocking them is an exercise in Leverage innovation. Estate-edge developments, constrained urban plots and infill schemes feature strongly across the shortlist. As the supply of straightforward development opportunities has reduced, complex sites have come into sharper focus as opportunities to address housing need in the capital. They require early collaboration, careful planning and a willingness to address risk long before construction begins. Clients who engage their contractor early can design out risk before it reaches site, protecting both programme and budget. That matters even more under the Building Safety Act, where higher-risk buildings need a construction-ready design before Gateway 2 approval. Early contractor input helps clients get there with confidence. 

3. Think beyond boundaries: great schemes create value beyond the homes 

Great housing extends beyond the homes themselves, in the spirit of Think beyond boundaries. Many projects create wider benefits through community facilities, public spaces, landscape improvements and better connections to surrounding neighbourhoods, which also supports Focus on health. 

4. Value diversity: housing is becoming increasingly people-centred 

Housing is becoming more focused on the needs of specific communities, which demonstrates Value diversityin practice. From homes for older residents and students to accommodation for veterans and people with specialist requirements, a one-size-fits-all approach is no longer enough. The most successful schemes understand the people they are designed for. 

5. Work in partnership: collaboration underpins successful delivery 

Working in partnership is the common thread across the shortlist. Councils, housing associations, consultants, contractors and communities all shape outcomes, and the strongest projects are built on strong relationships. 

From Red Loft’s perspective, a successful partnership needs collaboration between all stakeholders. The challenge of balancing funding needs, policy compliance, and viability concerns is essential to getting a project over the line. Risk runs throughout the process, and our job is to manage that risk while maintaining equity and ambition for our clients. 

For HG, successful delivery depends on early collaboration, quality control, risk management and programme certainty. Our integrated delivery model, from piling and frames through to M&E, drylining and offsite bathroom and utility pods, helps provide that control. 

Both perspectives point to the same conclusion: the best outcomes come when teams work together from the outset around shared objectives. 

This year's shortlist demonstrates the innovation, commitment and expertise that define London's housing sector. As London's sites become more challenging, the teams that collaborate early will set the standard. Congratulations to all those recognised. We look forward to celebrating with you at Guildhall in November. 

HG Construction: Building Every Vision 

Red Loft: Let’s build something great together