A PENARTH architect has seen off tough competition to win a BBC News vote for people's favourite new building.

Penarth-based Loyn and Co Architects secured a staggering 31 per cent of the vote for their stunning eco-friendly build, Outhouse.

More than 30,000 people offered their opinion in the poll.

Chris Loyn, director the architecture firm said: "Good grief, we were not expecting it - it had been 10 years since one of our houses were last shortlisted.

"We were so taken a back at getting over 30 per cent of the vote."

The Forest of Dean-based Outhouse is described as being "modern", and boasts two studios.

It was also one of six houses shortlisted for the prestigious Riba Stirling Award, but narrowly missed out.

Mr Loyn, who is also the president of Penarth Civic Society.

"The main thing for us is that people clearly liked the quality of the building - and in their eyes thought of us as the best.

"People must have seen it as a beautiful home and it does have a lovely quality."

Mr Loyn added: "I'd just like to thank everyone for voting for us - it was very thoughtful."