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
Our critics’ high points include a ceramic wedding cake you can climb inside to Alice Neel’s fearless portraits, plus a new children’s V&A and a school with lumpy yellow walls