JW3, a community centre for London’s Jewish population, has won a National Award for cultural architecture, the Royal Institute of British Architecture announced last night.

The project was one of 44 right across the UK honoured with the award, which forms the ‘long list’ from which the prestigious Stirling Prize shortlist is chosen in July.

The jury described the project as a “secular community centre that respects Jewish traditions. The building appears to be simple; however it is very sophisticated and well-resolved, both conceptually and in its detail. It is beautifully crafted using a restrained, rich palette of materials, the bronze balustrading and anodising gives a real sense of solidity and quality, everything that you touch feels considered and crafted.”

The JW3 announced today that it will turn its piazza into a beach this summer, replicating Tel Aviv’s sand and sun on the Finchley Road. It is currently screening a season of Jewish films in the space, and runs a programme of hundreds of events each month.