Robert E. Beach, AIA, and Lori Garrett, AIA, will be honored with the Award for Distinguished Achievement on Nov. 6 at Architecture Exchange East during the Annual Meeting of the Membership and on Nov. 7 during the Visions for Architecture gala at the Jefferson Hotel. The Award for Distinguished Achievement signals especially noteworthy achievement by an architect in any one of the following categories: design, practice, education, service as “citizen architect,” and service to the profession. This award may serve as an accolade for the work of an entire career or recognize the current accomplishments of a younger leader.
Throughout his 28-year career, Bob Beach, principal of Robert E. Beach Architects, LLC of Falls Church, Va., has exhibited leadership, integrity, social responsibility and an unwavering commitment to serve the community. Notwithstanding his success as an architect, Beach has consistently advanced the public’s understanding of the value of architecture through fundraising and civic involvement. In addition to his dedicated service to the AIA, he has spent countless hours volunteering at various boards, associations and institutional entities, including the Fairfax County History Commission, the Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce, and as volunteer pilot for Air Life Line – Angel Flight. In his current pro-bono project, he has provided architectural design services for The Turning Point Suffragist Memorial and has continued to work with local volunteers to inspire a truly unique local landmark with national implication. Through these collective efforts and initiatives as a “citizen architect,” he has elevated the practice of architecture throughout the Commonwealth.
Through leadership in the AIA and as Senior Principal and Vice President of Glavé and Holmes Architecture, Lori Garrett has promoted the aesthetic and practical efficiency of the profession; coordinated the building industry and the profession of architecture; and advanced the profession’s service to both its members and society at large. An accomplished designer, she has developed a portfolio of award-winning work and forged a successful career that serves as a role model to others. Her efforts in mentoring emerging professionals and supporting women and minorities are of special significance. Noted accomplishments include creating Richmond Women in Design, initiating the formation of the Virginia Emerging Professionals Knowledge Community, and promoting an industry sponsorship plan to recruit allied members to the Virginia Society AIA. For close to three decades, she has demonstrated excellence, creativity, and initiative within the design professions, actively assisting women within the design professions in achieving their full leadership potential, and providing valuable service to improve the quality of life for others in her community.