A contract to supply ceramic cladding for a major development at Newbury racecourse has landed Aliva UK the top prize in an international competition.
Aliva beat off strong competition to win the award from Japanese firm Toto and Italian-based Casalgrande Padana. It was for the best use of Toto’s Hydrotect technology in architecture in 2016.
Aliva submitted its project to supply and install 10,000sqm of eco-friendly ceramic cladding on a 10 five-storey residential blocks at Newbury. The new buildings are part of a huge £42m 10-year project from David Wilson Homes to build 1500 homes overlooking the racecourse. Main contractors are Midgard Limited. The white ceramic from Casalgrande Padana, coated in Hydrotect, will ensure a long lasting, self-cleaning finish for years to come.
When exposed to ultraviolet light (natural or artificial) Toto’s Hydrotect generates a reaction that cleans the surface by decomposing organics and by oxidising nitric dioxide into a less harmful substance. In effect, it purifies the surrounding air.
The judges chose Aliva because of the scale and complex design of the residential project.



Aliva Managing Director James Ormerod said:
“We are delighted to win this award for Newbury, which is a perfect example of how Hydrotect-protected ceramic can add green credentials and a high-quality, lasting luxury finish for major projects.”
Casalgrande Padana founder and chairman Franco Manfredini presented the award to the Aliva MD on 25 February at the Classic Hotel in Reggio Emilia.