2025 Master Builder of the Year: R & M Williams Limited

R & M Williams has been crowned the Master Builder of the Year for their remarkable transformation of the derelict Palace Theatre, a project that was a 'far more challenging endeavour than anyone had ever imagined.' 

National winner: R & M Williams Limited

The main objective was to restore, reconfigure, and refurbish the Grade II listed building — originally built in 1888 and empty since 2006 — into a state-of-the-art event and collaborative workspace for Swansea Council's end-tenant, Tramshed Tech. The project successfully breathed new life into a building that was in dangerous disrepair, with no functioning roof and a flooded basement.

A key highlight was the collaborative design and development process, which was crucial due to the building's advanced state of disrepair. As many areas were inaccessible pre-construction, the design was finalised during the build itself, with R&M Williams working alongside the design team and Cadw (the Welsh historic environment service) to address hundreds of requests for information.

Their careful and sympathetic approach involved salvaging and reusing many original features, such as Ebbw Vale bricks and cast-iron balustrades, and meticulously recreating unsalvageable elements like the conical roof and the proscenium arch.

The project team successfully overcame numerous challenges, including the building's intricate historic fabric and restricted floor plates. They devised a bespoke passive fire protection solution for the unique 400mm walls and integrated modern mechanical ventilation without creating new penetrations.

A complex, out-of-sequence construction program was implemented to accommodate the structural work, including craning new steel onto a prepared slab through an open roof.

Throughout the project, R&M Williams maintained exceptional relationships with all stakeholders, including the client, design team, and the neighbours.

They also achieved an impressive 93% diversion from landfill and delivered a £1.90 multiplier in added value to the local economy - meaning that for every £1 invested in the build an additional 90p was generated for the Welsh economy. Their dedication to saving a significant piece of Welsh heritage while creating a modern, functional space makes them a truly deserving winner.