Our Hall of Fame series reconnects with past WhatHouse? winners to revisit the moment that put them in the spotlight.
We ask them to reflect on what winning meant at the time, how it shaped their business, their plans for 2026 entries, and what advice they have for those hoping to follow in their footsteps…
Meet Suzanne Aplin, Group Sales & Marketing Director at Weston Homes, the current holder of the coveted Housebuilder of the Year Award.
On the day, how did it feel to win?
Winning the WhatHouse? Awards Housebuilder of the Year was, without doubt, the highlight of our year. Being voted the best housebuilder in Britain reflects the hard work and commitment of every single member of our team, as well as our suppliers and subcontractors, especially in a challenging market.
6 months on, what is the lasting impact of winning?
Our position as Housebuilder of the Year is a prestigious quality stamp on what we do, and how we do it.
For our employees, winning the industry’s most coveted accolade is a powerful morale boost and a source of pride. It validates the hard work and commitment of every single person. For our supply chain partners, it confirms they are partnered with a business at the highest level of the industry, fostering deeper and more secure relationships.
The win also amplifies our voice with government and policymakers, reinforcing our credibility when we engage and influence on issues facing the industry.
How did you make the most of your win commercially?
Immediately after the ceremony we set about spreading the news of our win as far and wide as possible. We started with our team, writing to every member of staff and every one of our contractors and suppliers to thank them for their part in our success. Banners popped up in all our offices and marketing suites within a few days celebrating the win, and everyone in the business uploaded an email signature banner, while we also had 150 gold balloons printed with the Housebuilder of the Year logo for our end-of year staff presentation.
To promote our win externally, we wrote to everyone on our database, carried out an extensive digital marketing campaign and printed liveried hoarding and signage for all our marketing suites and developments.
For housebuilders sitting on the fence about entering, what’s your advice? And what do you think makes a winning entry?
The value of the WhatHouse? Awards ceremony is immeasurable. It provides the most credible and rigorous independent validation in the industry. By championing the best new homes in Brtain, the WhatHouse? Awards set the standard, build consumer trust and drive the innovation necessary for the future of UK housing.
Will you be entering again this year?
Yes, we’re now planning our entries and hope to be back up on that famous stage at Grosvenor House in November. As an event, it’s an unparalleled opportunity for networking and a day of collective celebration. Be bold and enter, we’ll see you there.
