A plush 16th century property in Kent has been nominated for a prestigious award.

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced the shortlist for House of the Year.

One of the six nominees named is The Hall in Ashford, which was designed by TaylorHare Architects.

Located in the Kent Downs, the Grade II-listed residence has been “extensively and sympathetically” refurbished into a sustainable home.

The interiors have been restored and modernised, with finely crafted detailing that works harmoniously so that the historical elements complement the contemporary.

It is described by the RIBA as an "exemplar of green living".

The surrounding listed outbuildings have been restored, along with the addition of a pool, pool house, tennis court, stable block and a new lake.

The end result shows how to extend the life of a historic building while creating elegant living spaces for the future, the institute adds.

The nominated properties represent the UK’s best new architecture.

There is a broad mix of different design approaches that can be found across deeply rural and densely urban areas, with the other properties in Cornwall, London, Sussex and Monmouthshire.

RIBA president Muyiwa Oki said: “These six homes show how we can deliver high-quality residential architecture with impact.

“Exemplars in sensitive restoration, climate-conscious design and ingenious urban placemaking – they each present a bold, creative solution to meet housing needs.

“Individually, they are truly remarkable, breathtaking pieces of architecture; together they offer scalable solutions to issues faced by our built environment – from reinventing existing buildings to working with complex and constrained sites.

“However, their true success lies in the health and wellbeing of those that live inside: there can be no greater achievement for an architect.”

Chair of the awards, Je Ahn added: “A house can be many things – this year’s shortlist shows the breadth of possibilities.

“From rural contexts to tight urban sites, including fine craftsmanship and intergenerational living amongst other driving forces – all these houses are essentially about the people who live inside.

“Together the shortlisted exemplars offer scalable solutions to the urgent issues of today – displaying care towards sustainability and social changes, including the revival of historic buildings which don't negatively impact the natural environment.

“We were impressed by the ambition of both the architects and clients to meet the challenge of the contemporary home.”

To see the full shortlist, visit their website.

The winner will be announced on Tuesday, December 3.