Architecture: Rowan Moore’s five best projects of 2023

An innovative almshouse, bright and breezy seaside landmark and a playful rural folly all made their mark

• Read the Observer critics’ review of 2023 in full

1. Appleby Blue almshouse, London SE16
Witherford Watson Mann
The traditional almshouse reinvented in a modern urban setting. Sheltered housing that gives a haven of peace around a garden court, while connecting to the busy city life surrounding the site. If only all housing for older people could be designed this way.

2. Greville Street/ 8 Bleeding Heart Yard, London, EC1
Amin Taha/Groupwork
A drab 1970s office block renovated by veiling it in versions of the facades of the older buildings it replaced, realised in brass mesh. An architectural ghost that brings back a sense of time to the site. An inspired way to reuse a building.