A FIRM of architects has won an award for a nautical design.

Architect firm Browne Smith Baker, based in Darlington, has been presented with a Redcar and Cleveland Good Design Award for the £250,000 SureStart building in the seaside resort, designed by both adults and children - in the shape of sails.

The award-winning Lakeside Families Plus Centre - now the official home of West Redcar SureStart scheme - is on the site of Redcar's Lakes Primary School in West Dyke Road.

Malcolm Robinson, senior architect at Browne Smith Baker, said: "Our remit in this development was to provide a great facility for the whole community and a place which would provide support to families.

"We wanted to design something that was not only functional, but was also a place that reflected the people who would use it.

"As a result, the exterior design, which was inspired by a ship's sails, has a very seaside feel to it."

Canopies protect the building from the elements while helping to keep the building cool in the summer.

Under-floor heating was installed to maximize space while removing the danger of children touching hot radiators.

The building includes a crche for 13 children, an outdoor play area, consultation and training rooms and offices.

SureStart West Redcar programme manager Vanessa Newlands said: "We are using the centre every day and the reaction from all our families has been fantastic.

"The building is beautiful and we congratulate Browne Smith Baker on the good design award."