Associate Architect Recognised for Outstanding Contribution to Torbay’s Built Environment
Co Create Architects is delighted to announce that Associate Architect Shelley Oliver has been named the winner of the Unsung Hero Award at the Torbay Business Awards.
The award recognises individuals whose dedication, leadership and commitment often take place behind the scenes but have a lasting impact on their organisation, community and industry. For those who know Shelley and her work across Torbay, Devon and Cornwall, the recognition comes as no surprise.
“The Unsung Hero Award was presented to Shelley Oliver of Co Create Architects, recognising quiet but significant contribution behind the scenes.”
Torbay Business Awards
Shelley has become one of the most respected architects working across South Devon, delivering projects that improve communities, create new homes and support sustainable growth throughout the region.
A Champion for Torbay
Shelley’s connection to Torbay runs through much of her professional career. She has played a leading role in a number of significant local projects, including the redevelopment of the former St Kilda’s care home site in Brixham, helping to deliver high quality later living accommodation for local residents. She has also contributed to healthcare improvements through work on facilities at Torbay Hospital and continues to support housing delivery across the Bay.
Her work demonstrates the positive role architecture can play in addressing some of the area’s biggest challenges, from housing provision to regeneration and community wellbeing.
Leadership Beyond Architecture
Alongside her project work, Shelley is Chair of Women in Property South West, where she actively promotes diversity, inclusion and professional development across the construction and property sectors. Through mentoring, events and industry engagement, she continues to support the next generation of built environment professionals.
Her influence extends beyond individual projects, helping shape conversations about the future of architecture, development and construction throughout the South West.
Supporting Co Create Architects’ Growth Across Devon and Cornwall
Shelley’s award comes at an exciting time for Co Create Architects as the practice continues its expansion across the South West.
Over the past year, Co Create Architects has strengthened its presence throughout Devon and Cornwall, building on a growing portfolio of residential, commercial, healthcare and education projects. With work already underway across Cornwall and plans to further develop the practice’s presence in the county, the business is continuing to invest in local expertise and regional growth.
Shelley’s extensive experience across both Devon and Cornwall has been instrumental in supporting this expansion, helping clients navigate projects from concept through to completion while maintaining a strong focus on design quality, sustainability and community impact.
Looking Ahead
Everyone at Co Create Architects is incredibly proud of Shelley’s achievement.
As we continue to grow across Torbay, Devon and Cornwall, her passion, expertise and commitment to creating better places will remain central to our success.
Congratulations, Shelley, on a thoroughly deserved award and recognition for the remarkable contribution you continue to make to both our practice and the wider South West built environment sector.
