Call for Entries: 2024 Design Awards

Entries to the 2024 Design Awards program are now being accepted. AIA Virginia’s Awards for Excellence in Architecture (also known as the Design Awards) recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past seven years. The program is juried by a team of esteemed practitioners from outside of the region.

Each entry will be judged on how successful the project is in meeting its individual requirements. Consideration is given to aesthetics, social impact, innovation, context, performance, and stewardship of the natural environment — with particular emphasis on the Framework for Design Excellence.

Each entry must include a completed Framework for Design Excellence Project Information Form as page one of their submission. Note: Entrants should not feel obligated to respond to every measure within the Framework — only those that apply to the project being submitted. It is understood that every project is different and may not respond to each measure within the Framework. The jury will consider each design holistically and within context. (Note on the form itself – make sure all of your entry text is visible from the PDF before uploading.)

No specific number of awards is set, and the program is open to all categories of building as well as interiors projects. The location of projects is not restricted, but any built works submitted for consideration must have been completed on or after Jan. 1, 2017. Enter online.

The Design Awards program is sponsored by:

Gold
Bamforth Engineers + Surveyors
Silver
Epic Metals

Awards Categories include:

  • Architecture;
  • Design for Context;
  • Unbuilt Architecture;
  • Extended Use;
    • Historic Preservation
    • Adaptive or Continued Use
  • Interiors;
  • Residential; and
  • Small Projects
    • Up to $150K in construction cost
    • Up to $500K in construction cost
    • Under 5,000 square feet

Check out the complete descriptions of each award category, and review the regulations, eligibility requirements, and frequently asked questions for more information.

Entries are due by 5 p.m. on June 28, 2024. Note: You should be prepared to submit your concealed ID and project submission upon entry.

Entry fees

AIA Virginia Members:
$210 for the first project
$180 for each additional project
The Small Projects Category has a reduced entry fee of $100
Note: The entrant must be a member of AIA Virginia to be eligible to receive the member discount. The submitting AIA Virginia member must be a contributor to the design team.

Non-members of the AIAVA (must have an office located in Virginia):
$295 for the first project
$270 for each additional project
The Small Projects Category has a reduced entry fee of $200

Not an AIA Virginia member? Apply for unassigned membership.

About the Framework for Design Excellence

Developed by members of the AIA, the Framework for Design Excellence, represents the defining principles of good design in the 21st century. It’s intended to be accessible and relevant for every architect, every client, and every project — regardless of size, typology, or aspiration.

The 10 measures that make up the Framework are intended to inspire progress toward a zero-carbon, equitable, resilient, and healthy built environment. They represent standards of excellence as defined by members of the AIA. These measures align with the AIA’s core values which are collectively defined by members across the country.

The completed Framework for Design Excellence Project Information Form is required and shall be page 1 of each submission. The remaining 6 pages of each submission may be designed and defined by the entrant.

Use the Project Narrative section to describe how the design aligns with the Framework for Design Excellence. Entrants are encouraged to address all applicable measures.

We recognize every project is different and may not respond to every measure within the Framework. The jury will consider the design holistically and within context.

Data may not be available for some metrics on the form, or the client may prefer to keep certain metrics confidential. If this is the case, space is provided on the form to provide an explanation.

Entrants are encouraged to call out extraordinary responses to specific measures in the remaining 6 pages of their submission as well.

Call for Entries: 2020 Design Awards

AIA Virginia’s Awards for Excellence in Architecture recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past eight years. Also known as the Design Awards, the program is juried by a team of esteemed practitioners. No specific number of awards is set, and the program is open to all categories of building as well as interiors projects. The location of projects is not restricted, but any built works submitted for consideration must have been completed after January 1, 2012. Enter online.

There are five categories in the Awards for Excellence:
Architecture
Historic Preservation
Interiors
Contextual Design; and
Residential Design.

Each entry will be judged on how successful the project is in meeting its individual requirements, with particular emphasis on design excellence.

In each category, consideration is given to aesthetics, social impact, innovation, context, performance, and stewardship of the natural environment.

Check out the complete descriptions of the awards categories, and review the regulations, eligibility requirements, and frequently asked questions for more information.

Entries are due by 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2020. Note: You should be prepared to submit your concealed ID and project submission upon entry.

Entry fees
AIA Virginia members: $190 for first project; $160 for additional projects
AIA Virginia Associate members: $85 for each project
Non-member w/ office in Virginia: $245 for first project; $220 for additional projects

Note that you must be a member or associate member of the AIA Virginia to receive a member discount. Only members of AIA Virginia are eligible for the discounted member rate, regardless of your national AIA member status.

Not an AIA Virginia member? Apply for unassigned membership.

2019 Design Awards Announced

AIA Virginia is pleased to announce the 2019 Awards for Excellence in Architecture. Also known as the Design Awards, these honors celebrate projects no older than seven years that contribute to the built environment and are clear examples of thoughtful, engaging design. Award categories include Architecture, Contextual Design, Historic Preservation, Interior Design, and Residential Design. These 22 projects will be celebrated at the Visions for Architecture gala on Friday, Nov. 8, 2019, at the Hilton Downtown Richmond.  Jury Chair Ann Beha, FAIA, will offer insights from the jury at Architecture Exchange East at 2:45 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 8.

In the ARCHITECTURE category

The jury considers aesthetics, adherence to the client wishes, proven and projected building performance, and concept development during its deliberations.

Awards of Honor

Blue Ridge Orthodontics

Blue Ridge Orthodontics (Ashville, N.C.)
This project brings an infusion of well-considered craft and good planning into the medical office building type. Light materials convey cleanliness without being institutional and the views to the outdoors convey a sense of tranquility.

Architecture Firm: Clark Nexsen
Owner: Blue Ridge Orthodontics
Contractor: Beverly-Grant, Inc.
Photographer: Mark Herboth Photography, LLC


Google at 1212 Bordeaux

Google at 1212 Bordeaux (Sunnyvale, Ca.)
This thoughtfully-planned project is well connected to its compact setting. The materials and bridges help achieve unity and visibility in this highly-collaborative office space.

Architecture Firm: Parabola Architecture
Owner: Google
Contractor: Devcon Construction, Inc.
Photographers: Prakash Patel Photography (featured) and Kevin Burke Photography


Rhodes College Robertson Hall

Rhodes College Robertson Hall (Memphis, Tn.)
This was an appealing, engaging response to a clear historic context. The architects “pushed it” despite prescriptive exteriors. Fewer materials make the project more coherent and more powerful.

Architecture Firm: Hanbury
Owner: Rhodes College
Contractor: Grinder Tabor & Grinder
Photographer: Robert Benson Photography

Awards of Merit

The Brendan Iribe Center for Computer Science and Engineering

The Brendan Iribe Center for Computer Science and Engineering (College Park, Md.)
As a campus gateway, this succeeds in place-making. It showcases “the arrival” with a strong, contemporary statement. The interiors are varied and welcoming, legibly emphasizing STEM education.

Architecture Firm: HDR Architecture, Inc.
Owner: University of Maryland
Contractor: Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Photographer: Dan Schwalm | HDR


Elon W. Rhodes Early Learning Center

Elon W. Rhodes Early Learning Center (Harrisonburg, Va.)
The scale is good and the planning is extremely strong. Public circulation is active and the adjacencies and flexibilities will make this a long-term asset to the school system.

Architecture Firm: VMDO Architects
Owner: Harrisonburg City Public Schools
Contractor: Nielsen Builders
Photographer: Alan Karchmer


Hotels at The Wharf – Canopy by Hilton & Hyatt House

Hotels at The Wharf – Canopy by Hilton & Hyatt House (Washington, D.C.)
An Urbanistic success! The simple, slender façade and skillful massing create active, outdoor spaces which are full of life and urban vitality. The podium and geometries are considerate of site, scale, and marketplace conditions.

Architecture Firm: SmithGroup
Owner: Hoffman-Madison Waterfront
Contractor: Donohoe Construction Company
Photographers: Hoachlander Davis Photography (featured), Photofusion Media, Alex Fradkin


Howard University Interdisciplinary Research Building

Howard University Interdisciplinary Research Building (IRB) (Washington, D.C.)
This project makes a strong, simple statement. It is powerful yet restrained in composition with a clear and dynamic street presence.

Architecture Firm: HDR Architecture, Inc.
Owner: Howard University
Contractor: Turner Construction
Photographer: Ari Burling | Architectural Photography


WTCC Parking Deck 2

WTCC Parking Deck 2 (Raleigh, N.C.)
As a parking garage at community college, this really is a good citizen. The cladding and crenellations are good solar control strategies and the views and daylight promote safety and clear wayfinding.

Architecture Firm: Clark Nexsen
Owner: Wake Technical Community College
Contractor: SKANSKA
Photographer: Mark Herboth Photography, LLC

In the CONTEXTUAL DESIGN category

The awards for contextual design are chosen based on outstanding architecture that perceptibly reflects the history, culture, and physical environment of the place in which it stands and that, in turn, contributes to the function, beauty, and meaning of its larger context.

Awards of Merit

550 East Water Street

550 East Water Street (Charlottesville, Va.)
This project claims its own identity while still successfully responding to its site between the rail tracks and street. It’s a wonderful example of good urban infill.

Architecture Firm: Formwork Design Office, LLC
Owner: 550 E. Water St., LLC
Contractor: Martin Horn, Inc.
Photographer: Kevin Blackburn Photography and Michael Stavaridis (featured)


Claude Moore Education Complex (Roanoke, Va.)
With its simple streetscape and successful interior kitchen and training facilities, this is architecture that respectfully contributes to the neighborhood’s vibrant history.

Architecture Firm: Spectrum Design, PC
Owner: Roanoke Higher Education Authority
Contractor: Avis Construction
Photographer: Boyd Pearman Photography


Re-Imagining Benefield

Re-Imagining Benefield (Richmond, Va.)
This is a successful representation of how an engaged design team and a participatory community can work together to create a design that reflects a neighborhood’s values while pushing it to be all it can be.

Architecture Firm: HKS, Inc.
Owner: Boaz & Ruth
Contractor: Urban Core
MEP: Integral Group
Structural Engineer: Dunbar Milby Williams Pittman & Vaughan, PLLC
Renderings: HKS, Inc.

In the HISTORIC PRESERVATION category

The historic preservation category focuses specifically on excellence in strategies, tactics, and technologies that advance the art, craft, and science of preserving historically significant buildings and sites. The jury takes into consideration adherence to local, state, and national criteria for historic preservation.

Award of Honor

Spencer Carriage House Deep Energy Retrofit

Spencer Carriage House Deep Energy Retrofit (Washington, D.C.)
This is a robust example of repurposing that is both sensitive to history and appealing to a contemporary audience. Balancing the client’s net-zero energy goals with responsible historic preservation is well-documented and laudable.

Architecture Firm: Peabody Architects, Building Envelope and Restoration
Owner: Lew Hages and Gerard Boquel
Contractor: Ari Fingeroth
Interiors Architect: Yoko Barsky, Deco Design Studio
Photographer: David Peabody, Buzz Photo (featured)

Awards of Merit

The Cavalier Hotel Rehabilitation

The Cavalier Hotel Rehabilitation (Virginia Beach, Va.)
The design confirms the connection between the hotel and its rich history. Structural solutions are well considered and very innovative.

Architecture Firm: Hanbury
Owner: Gold Key / PHR
Contractor: W.M. Jordan Co.
Photographer: Robert Benson Photography


The Lockkeeper’s House

The Lockkeeper’s House (Washington, D.C.)
The exterior, interior, and landscape are all well executed — it feels like welcoming back a lost treasure.

Architecture Firm: Davis Buckley Architects and Planners
Owner: National Park Service
Client: Trust for the National Mall
Contractor: Hensel Phelps
Photographer: Michael Ventura Photography

In the INTERIOR DESIGN category

Interior design projects are judged on mastery of composition, functionality, material and color palettes, and well-integrated adherence to the highest levels of accessibility, health and safety, environmental, and occupant-comfort considerations, standards, and regulations.

Awards of Merit

118 East Main St.

118 East Main St. (Charlottesville, Va.)
The small footprint feels airy and enlarged. The simple, disciplined approach optimizes the two windows and is an excellent example of understated elegance.

Architecture Firm: Bushman Dreyfus Architects
Owner: West Cote Properties, LLC
Contractor: Longview Management & Construction Co., LLC
Photographer: Virginia Hamrick


San Francisco Tech Company

San Francisco Tech Company (San Francisco, Ca.)
The efficient, modular approach celebrates the steel frame.  The industrial ambiance and mezzanine are very successful and the floor trenching creates future flexibility.

Architecture Firm: Parabola Architecture
Client Liaison and Project Management: Alex Neuhold Consulting
Contractor: Devcon Construction, Inc.
Photographers: Prakash Patel Photography (featured) and Kevin Burke Photography


Watergate 502

Watergate 502 (Washington, D.C.)
This is a reinstatement and enlargement of thoughtful modernism. The curved element, integrated columns, and angularity of the plan are well-handled.

Architecture Firm: Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect
Owner: (Withheld)
Contractor: Added Dimensions, Inc.
Interior Design: Baron Gurney Interiors
Photographer: Hoachlander Davis Photography

In the RESIDENTIAL DESIGN category

Aesthetic appeal and functionality are two long-established criteria for home design, as are affordability and resource efficiency. The jury looks at each submission in its totality toward meeting those goals.

Awards of Honor

Chapman Stables Housing

Chapman Stables Housing (Washington, D.C.)
The design offers hints at the structure’s history, expressing how the building has evolved over time. The massing and site planning are notable.

Architecture Firm: Studio Twenty Seven Architecture
Owner: 57 N Street LLC
Contractor: GCS | Sigal
Photographer: Hoachlander Davis Photography
Civil Engineer: Christopher consultants
Structural Engineer: Ehlert Bryan
MEP Engineer: Meta Engineers
Landscape Engineer: Clinton & Associates


Mid Century Modern Residence

Mid Century Modern Residence (Bethesda, Md.)
This design respected the form of the original house and amplified it. The new co-exists harmoniously with the original. The composition is clear and the landscape is elegantly integrated.

Architecture Firm: Studio Twenty Seven Architecture
Owner: Tori and Sam Wales
Civil Engineer: Christopher consultants
Structural Engineer: Ehlert Bryan
MEP Engineer: Provectus
Contractor: Washington Landmark Construction
Photographer: Hoachlander Davis Photography


Mossy Rock

Mossy Rock (Free Union, Va.)
This simple new construction features clean lines and beautiful use of materials. The scale of the outdoor porch is appealing and well-connected to the landscape.

Architecture Firm: Bushman Dreyfus Architects
Owner: Anonymous
Contractor: Dammann Construction
Photographers: Stephen Barling (featured), Will Kerner

Awards of Merit

AUTO-haus

AUTO-haus (Washington, D.C.)
The spatial properties of the existing condition were optimized to create a courtyard-like feel. The industrial vocabulary was consistent and clever.

Architecture Firm: KUBE architecture PC
Owner: Nick Rubenstein & Jennifer Hsu
Contractor: ThinkMakeBuild
Photographer: Hoachlander Davis Photography


Lyon Park House

Lyon Park House (Arlington, Va.)
This light-filled renovation recalls the original while still being adventurous. It conveys a message about future possibilities while still being a good contextual neighbor.

Architecture Firm: Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect
Owner: (Withheld)
Contractor: Arta Construction
Structural Engineer: D. Anthony Beale LLC
Photographer: Hoachlander Davis Photography


About the Jury

Ann Beha, FAIA, Jury Chair, Principal at Ann Beha Architects
Rodrigo Abela, ASLA, PLA, LEED AP BD+C, Principal at Gustafson Guthrie
Sara Caples AIA, LEED, Principal at Caples Jefferson Architects
Anthony Pangaro, Partner at Millennium Partners (retired)
James Elmasry, AIA, LEED AP, Senior Program Planner at Yale University

Read more about the jury.

About the Awards for Excellence in Architecture

All entries must be the work of architects who have an office in Virginia or are members of AIA Virginia. The location of projects is not restricted, but any built work submitted must have been completed after January 1, 2011. Un-built work was also considered, as long as it was commissioned by a client as opposed to hypothetical work completed in the mode of research or academic training.

2018 Design Awards Announced

AIA Virginia honors work done by Virginia-based architects with the 2018 Awards for Excellence in Architecture. Also known as the Design Awards, these honors celebrate projects no older than seven years that contribute to the built environment and are clear examples of thoughtful, engaging design. This year’s jury has identified two Honor Awards, thirteen Merit Awards, and one Honorable Mention. Award categories include Architecture, Contextual Design, Residential Design, Interior Design and Historic Preservation.

About the Jury
Jury Chair: Paul Schulhof, partner at Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects
Adam Yarinsky, FAIA LEED AP, founding Principal of ARO (Architecture Research Office) in New York City.
Sara Grant, AIA, LEED AP, partner at Murphy Burnham & Buttrick in New York City.
Miriam Kelly, RIBA, ARB, AABC, Senior Associate at the firm Beyer Blinder Belle in New York City.
Maitland Jones, AIA, LEED AP, partner at Deborah Berke Partners in New York City.

(image gallery follows)

In the ARCHITECTURE category

The jury considers aesthetics, adherence to the client’s wishes, proven and projected building performance and concept development during its deliberations.

Architecture Honor Award Recipient:

The Lewis and Clark Exploratory Center of Virginia (Charlottesville, Va.) by hays+ewing design studio, pc (Charlottesville, Va.)

The Jury noted that they were “enamored by The Lewis and Clark Exploratory Center’selegance of detail and deep respect for its context. The project achieves a striking balance with a strong form that remains deferential to its landscape, and should be commended for the difficulty inherent in achieving this.”

Architecture Merit Award Recipients:

  • University of Chicago, Campus North Residence Hall and Dining (Chicago, Il.) by Hanbury
  • University of Pennsylvania Stephen A. Levin Building for Neural and Behavioral Sciences (Philadelphia, Pa.) by SmithGroup (Washington, D.C.)
  • Brooks Family YMCA (Charlottesville, Va.) by VMDO Architects (Charlottesville, Va.)
  • The Kipp Columbus Batelle Environmental Center (Columbus, Oh.) by Flansburgh Architects (Richmond, Va.)
  • Institute for Contemporary Art at the Markel Center (Richmond, Va.) by BCWH Architects (Richmond, Va.)

Architecture Honorable Mention Recipients:

In the CONTEXTUAL DESIGN category

The awards for contextual design are chosen based on outstanding architecture that perceptibly reflects the history, culture, and physical environment of the place in which it stands and that, in turn, contributes to the function, beauty, and meaning of its larger context.

Contextual Merit Award Recipients:

In the RESIDENTIAL DESIGN category

Aesthetic appeal and functionality are two long-established criteria for home design as are affordability and resource efficiency. The jury looks at each submission in its totality toward meeting those goals.

Residential Design Merit Award Recipient:

In the HISTORIC PRESERVATION category

The historic preservation category focuses specifically on excellence in strategies, tactics, and technologies that advance the art, craft, and science of preserving historically significant buildings and sites. The jury takes into consideration adherence to local, state, and national criteria for historic preservation.

Historic Preservation Honor Award Recipient:

Historic Dome Restoration, United States Capitol (Washington, D.C.) by Hoffmann Architects, Inc. (Arlington, Va.)
The jury notes “This restoration shows evidence of best practices in preservation for one of the most important buildings in America. Its research and technical practice is a model that serves as a testament to the relevance and importance of the historic preservation discipline in Architecture.”

Historic Preservation Merit Award Recipient:

In the INTERIOR DESIGN category

Interior design projects are judged on mastery of composition, functionality, material and color palettes, and well-integrated adherence to the highest levels of accessibility, health and safety, environmental, and occupant-comfort considerations, standards, and regulations.

Interior Design Merit Award Recipients:

Schulhof Announced as Design Awards Jury Chair

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 2018 Design Awards close on June 28!!! Enter today>>

Paul Schulhof will chair the jury of the 2018 AIA Virginia Awards for Excellence in Architecture. Also known as the Design Awards, the program recognizes outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past eight years and is juried by a team of esteemed practitioners. For 2018 there are five categories in the Awards for Excellence: Architecture, Historic Preservation, Interiors, Contextual Design, and Residential Design.

©Taylor Jewell

Paul Schulhof is a partner at the architecture firm of Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects | Partners (TWBTA). He joined TWBTA in 1999 and became the third partner in the practice in 2013. TWBTA is located in New York City and provides architectural, master planning, and interior design services for civic, institutional, educational, and private clients in the United States and abroad. TWBTA has won numerous awards including the National AIA Firm Award in 2013.

Paul has overseen a wide range of projects at TWBTA including the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, the US Embassy in Mexico City, a technology campus for TATA Consultancy Services in India, the expansion of the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York City, a dormitory for Haverford College, and an award-winning house on Long Island.

Before joining TWBTA, Paul was an architect at Weiss/Manfredi Architects and at Beyer Blinder Belle Architects and Planners where he worked on the restoration of New York’s Grand Central Terminal. He received his Bachelor of Science from Cornell University and Master of Architecture from the University of Virginia. Paul has taught graduate-level architecture studios at Yale University and served as a guest critic at multiple institutions.

Read the fine print or submit an entry>>

Design Awards Call for Entries Now Open

AIA Virginia’s Awards for Excellence in Architecture recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past eight years. Also known as the Design Awards, the program is juried by a team of esteemed practitioners. No specific number of awards is set, and the program is open to all categories of building as well as interiors projects. The location of projects is not restricted, but any built works submitted for consideration must have been completed after January 1, 2010.

For 2018 there are five categories in the Awards for Excellence:
Architecture
Historic Preservation
Interiors
Contextual Design; and
Residential Design.

Please see complete descriptions of the awards categories, and review the regulations, eligibility requirements, and frequently asked questions for more information.

Entries are due by 5 p.m. on June 28, 2018. Note: You should be prepared to submit your concealed ID and project submission upon entry.

Awards certificates are presented each November at Architecture Exchange East (ArchEx). Designers and projects are also honored during the Visions for Architecture gala and serve as the subject of an annual exhibition at ArchEx and The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design.

Not an AIA Virginia member? Apply for unassigned membership here>>

CALL for ENTRIES: 2017 Design Awards

The AIA Virginia’s Awards for Excellence in Architecture recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past eight years. Also known as the Design Awards, the program is juried by a team of esteemed practitioners. No specific number of awards is set, and the program is open to all categories of building as well as interiors projects. The location of projects is not restricted, but any built works submitted for consideration must have been completed after January 1, 2010.

For 2017 there are five categories in the Awards for Excellence:

  • Architecture
  • Historic Preservation
  • Interiors
  • Contextual Design; and
  • Residential Design.

Please see complete descriptions of the awards categories, and review the regulations, eligibility requirements, and frequently asked questions for more information.

Entries are due by 5 p.m. on June 15, 2017. Note: You should be prepared to submit your concealed ID and project submission upon entry.

Awards certificates are presented each November at Architecture Exchange East (ArchEx). Designers and projects are also honored during the Visions for Architecture gala and serve as the subject of an annual exhibition at ArchEx and The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design.

Thank you to Keith Fabry Reprographic Solutions for sponsoring the 2017 Awards for Excellence in Architecture.

Want to take advantage of the member discount? Become and unassigned member of AIA Virginia. Contact Cathy Guske, Member Services Director at cguske@aiava.org or (804) 237-1763.

2016 Design Awards Announced

AIA Virginia honors work done by Virginia architects with 2016 Awards for Excellence in Architecture. Also known as the Design Awards, these honors celebrate projects no older than seven years that contribute to the built environment and are clear examples of thoughtful, engaging design. This year juries have identified one Honor + Excellence Award, five Honor Awards, nine Merit Awards and four Honorable Mentions. Award categories include Architecture, Contextual Design, Residential Design, Interior Design and Historic Preservation.

These projects will be on display at The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design in 2016 Awards for Excellence in Architecture: An Exhibition of Winning Work, Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016-Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017.

In the ARCHITECTURE category

The jury considers aesthetics, adherence to the client program, proven and projected building performance and concept development during its deliberations.

Architecture Honor Award Recipients:

  • East Quad Renovation/ University of Michigan (Ann Arbor, Mich.) by Hanbury
    “This project demonstrated superlative architectural stewardship of University of Michigan’s East Quad building complex,” says the jury.
  • Regional Plant Teaching Facility (Raleigh, N.C.) by Clark Nexen
    The jury states, “It put technology on display in a well thought out architectural language that would make even an architect want to learn about what’s going on inside.”

Architecture Merit Award Recipients:

  • Mundo Verde Charter School (Washington, D.C.) by Studio Twenty Seven Architecture
  • Center for Strategic and International Studies (Washington, D.C.) by Hickok Cole Architects
  • Intelligence Community Campus/Bethesda (Bethesda, Md.) by AECOM / Leo A. Daly / DBI

Architecture Honorable Mention Recipients:

  • Safeway Lifestyle Store (Alexandria, Va.) by Cunningham | Quill Architects PLLC with Associate Architect Freeman Morgan Architects
  • Air Traffic Control Tower (mobile/modular unit) by Jacobs

In the CONTEXTUAL DESIGN category

The awards for contextual design are chosen based on outstanding architecture that perceptibly reflects the history, culture, and physical environment of the place in which it stands and that, in turn, contributes to the function, beauty, and meaning of its larger context.

Contextual Merit Award Recipients:

  • Duke Hall (Harrisonburg, Va.) by Clark Nexsen in association with GUND Partnership

Contextual Honorable Mention Recipient:

  • 7001 Arlington Road (Bethesda, Md.) by KGD Architecture

In the RESIDENTIAL DESIGN category

Aesthetic appeal and functionality are two long-established criteria for home design as are affordability and resource efficiency. The jury looks at each submission in its totality toward meeting those goals.

Residential Design Honor + Excellence Award Recipient:

  • James River House (Scottsville, Va.) by ARCHITECTUREFIRM
    “This project captured the jury from the first slide and was the favorite of all entries submitted this year,” says the jury.

Residential Design Honor Award Recipients:

  • Casa Abierta (Chevy Chase, Md.) by KUBE architecture PC
    The jury notes “By borrowing space from the outdoors the house has a scale and grandeur that belies its small footprint.”
  • Salt and Pepper House (Washington, D.C.) by KUBE architecture PC
    “An extraordinary renovation of a traditional row house — of Shaker simplicity — into a colorful and astonishingly contrasting environment within,” says the jury.
  • Ontario Residence (Washington, D.C.) by David Jameson Architect Inc.
    “The garden façade with its dancing wooden figure leads inside to a dancing stair that inhabits the volumes and modulates the plan,” says the jury.

Residential Design Merit Award Recipient:

  • Brandywine House (Washington, D.C.) by Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect

Residential Design Honorable Mention Recipient:

  • Kits of Parts Home (Charlottesville, Va.) by HAUSCRAFT

In the HISTORIC PRESERVATION category

The historic preservation category focuses specifically on excellence in strategies, tactics, and technologies that advance the art, craft, and science of preserving historically significant buildings and sites. The jury takes into consideration adherence to local, state, and national criteria for historic preservation.

Historic Preservation Merit Award Recipient:

  • Union Station (Washington, D.C.) by Michael Winstanley Architects & Planners

In the INTERIOR DESIGN category

Interior design projects are judged on mastery of composition, functionality, material and color palettes, and well-integrated adherence to the highest levels of accessibility, health and safety, environmental, and occupant-comfort considerations, standards, and regulations.

Interior Design Merit Award Recipients:

  • STM Laboratories at Gallaudet University (Washington, D.C.) by Studio Twenty Seven Architecture
  • Park Avenue Apartment (New York, N.Y.) by ARCHITECTUREFIRM
  • Sharma Mathur (Washington, D.C.) by Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect

2016 Design Awards Call for Entries

AIA Virginia’s Awards for Excellence in Architecture recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past eight years. Also known as the Design Awards, the program is juried by a team of esteemed practitioners. No specific number of awards is set, and the program is open to all categories of building as well as interiors projects. All entries must be the work of architects who have an office in Virginia OR are members of AIA Virginia.

DEADLINE EXTENDED! Entries for the 2016 Awards for Excellence in Architecture are being accepted through June 20, 2016.

There are five categories in the Awards for Excellence: Architecture, Historic Preservation, Interior Design, Contextual Design, and Residential Design. See descriptions of the awards categories.

Awards certificates are presented each November at Architecture Exchange East, AIA Virginia’s annual conference. They are also honored during the Visions for Architecture gala and serve as the subject of an annual exhibition at The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design.

Please see the complete regulations and frequently asked questions for more information.

See the 2012  honorees, 2013 honorees, 2014 honorees and 2015 honorees.

Questions? Contact rgeorge@aiava.org or call (804) 237-1768.