AIA Virginia Announces 2023 Design Awards Jury 

A committee of esteemed architects chaired by Ray Calabro, FAIA, will judge the entries for AIA Virginia’s 2023 Awards for Excellence in Architecture. Joining Calabro on the jury are Jennifer Devlin-Herbert, FAIA; Omar Gandhi, FRAAC; and Karen Lu, AIA. These annual awards recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past seven years. Also known as the Design Awards, the program is open to all categories of building as well as interiors projects.  
The awards program is currently open for submissions. 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. Deadline for entries is 5 p.m. on June 28, 2023. 

About Ray Calabro, FAIA

Calabro is a principal of the Pennsylvania firm Bohlin Cywinski Jackson. Educated at Virginia Tech (B. Arch., 1994), he began his career there as a lecturer in the College of Architecture and Urban Studies. Since joining Bohlin Cywinski Jackson in 1995, Ray’s project experience spans academic, cultural, commercial and residential projects in the continental U.S. and Canada. In 2014, he was elevated to the College of Fellows. 

About Jennifer Devlin-Herbert, FAIA

Devlin-Herbert, of San Francisco’s EHDD, was the firm’s first woman partner, and is now its first woman CEO. She is a distinguished design leader for evolving trends in learning environments across multiple project types, from educational spaces to science centers and libraries. Throughout a career spanning 30 years, her rich portfolio includes projects that reflect an unwavering commitment to her clients. Her work has been recognized with a National AIA Honor Award for Design.   

About Omar Gandhi, FRAAC

Gandhi is the Principal of Omar Gandhi Architects, a Canadian architectural practice with small teams in both Halifax and Toronto. He was chosen as one of the Architectural League of New York’s ‘Emerging Voices’ of 2016 and in 2018 was appointed the Louis I. Kahn Visiting Assistant Professorship in Architectural Design at the Yale School of Architecture. Gandhi was made a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Association of Canada in 2022.  

About Karen Lu, AIA, NOMA

Lu is an Associate Principal at Snow Kreilich Architects in Minneapolis. Her commitment to design excellence and to positively impacting future generations of architecture professionals and global citizens is evident in her professional work and service to the AIA and her community. She is currently the AIA Strategic Council Minnesota Representative and a board adviser to MSP NOMA.

Call for Entries: 2023 Design Awards

Entries to the 2023 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.

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, 2016. Enter online.

The Design Awards program is sponsored by:

Bronze
Bamforth Engineers + Surveyors

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 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, 2023. Note: You should be prepared to submit your concealed ID and project submission upon entry.

Entry fees

AIA Virginia Members:
$190 for the first project
$160 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):
$245 for the first project
$220 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.

2022 Design Awards Announced

AIA Virginia is pleased to announce the 2022 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. Within each of the award categories, consideration was given to sustainability, affordability, social impact, innovation, durability, addressing the natural and built context, and meeting the specific needs of the client.

From a field of 155 entries, only 16 were selected by the jury for recognition. These few projects stood above the rest as particularly notable. Awards of Merit are presented to those project worthy of recognition and an Award of Honor is reserved for those projects deemed by the jury to be truly exceptional.  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.

About the Jury
The jury was chaired by Anne Marie Duvall-Decker, FAIA principal of the Jackson, Mississippi-based firm Duvall Decker. She was joined by Paul Mankins, FAIA founder of Substance Architecture and Cody Farris, AIA, Studio Design Director with Duvall Decker.

In the ADAPTIVE OR CONTINUED USE category

The work of retrofitting, renovating, adapting, and remodeling existing buildings accounts for almost half of U.S. architecture billings. This award celebrates design interventions upon existing buildings that help achieve carbon reduction through creative reuse and adaptation.

Award of Honor

Arts and Letters Creative Co. (Richmond, Va.)

Architecture Firm: ARCHITECTUREFIRM
Owner: Arts & Letters Creative Co.
General Contractor: DPR Construction
Structural Engineer: Engineering Solutions
MEP Engineer: AKF Group LLC
Photographers: Kate Thompson, Palindrome Creative Co. and James Ewing, James Ewing Photography

Jury Comments: This creative workplace displayed a clear attitude toward reuse. The simple, white objects are juxtaposed against the raw, patinated, existing container — allowing you to understand both in a new way. It’s a clear and well-executed renovation strategy that simultaneously preserves and repurposes the building for its next life.

Award of Merit

Assembly (Norfolk, Va.)

Architecture Firm: Work Program Architects (WPA)
Owner: Assembly (Drew Ungvarsky)
General Contractor: Clancy & Theys Construction Company
Interior Design: Campfire+Co.
Photographer: Yuzhu Zheng Photography

Jury Comments: This coworking facility is organized around a new, open stairway that provides connection between a variety of work settings created on all levels of the historic building. The procession up and through the building is celebrated, while simple, light-filled interiors breathe new life into a former department store.

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

Arthur J. Altmeyer Social Security Administration Building (Woodlawn, Md.)

Architect of Record: HGA
Design Architect: Snow Kreilich Architects
Owner: General Services Administration
General Contractor: Hensel Phelps
Façade Consultant: Studio NYL
Landscape Architect: OLIN
Civil Engineer: Sorba Engineering
Structural Engineering: Woods Peacock and HGA Structural
Mechanical Engineer: HGA Mechanical
Electrical Engineer: HGA Electrical
Fire Protection Engineer: Summit Fire Protection
Acoustics/AV/Building Security: Polysonics
Blast & Site Security: Hinman
Cost Estimating: Toscano Clements Taylor (TCT)
LEED Consultant: Sustainable Design Consulting, LLC
Enclosure Commissioning: WDP & Associates:
Photographer: Kendall McCaugherty, Hall Merrick McCaugherty Photographers

Jury Comments: A remarkable transformation of an unremarkable government building into a 21st-century workplace. The curtainwall system is well considered, beautifully detailed, and reductive — creating wonderful daylit spaces out of what was previously a warren of dark anonymous hallways. The exterior expression is subtle but engaging, creating a gradation when seen from the distance, and experienced as a slow and engaging change when approached on foot.

Capitol One Hall (Tysons, Va.)

Architecture Firm: HGA
Owner: Capital One Financial (Barry Mark, Representative)
General Contractor: The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Photographer: Alan Karchmer

Jury Comments: A sophisticated performing arts facility inserted into a complex urban site. The public spaces and the “house” are warm and wonderfully detailed. The limited material palette provides cohesiveness to what is a very large building. The powerful pleated façade begets a striking reciprocal interior ceiling that together act as a counterpoint to the refined wood and steel jewel box that is the theater. The public rooftop park and garden are a wonderful bonus gift to the city.

R|refuge (Leonardtown, Md.)

Architecture Firm: Page/
Owner: withheld
General Contractor: J. Johnson Enterprises Inc.
Structural Engineer: Springpoint Structural
Civil Engineer: Soltesz
Photographer: Anice Hoachlander, StudioHDP

Jury Comments: This private residence reveals a clear, processional experience in which the remarkable waterfront view is gradually revealed to the visitor. The integration of the home into the landscape is impressive and extends the generative logic into the site. The sequence of the plan and site is tightly woven with the ecological program. Each design decision seems to be multivalent, performing multiple duties with minimal wasted effort. The material palette is restrained and durable without feeling cold, and the material choices help reinforce the clarity of the plan and the sustainability goals of the project.

Awards of Merit

AC Hotel by Marriott (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: WDG Architecture
Owner: OTO Development
General Contractor: Lend Lease (US) Construction, Inc.
Photographer: Joseph Romeo Photography

Jury Comments: This urban infill project uses an ingenious unitized enclosure system to activate the street wall and mediate between two disparate neighboring buildings. The result is something at home on the street but surprising and engaging. The emphasis on single window units subtly telegraphs the interior program to the exterior.

Edneyville Elementary School (Hendersonville, N.C.)

Architecture Firm: Clark Nexsen
Owner: Henderson County (John Mitchell, Representative)
General Contractor: Beverly-Grant Inc. / Barnhill
Civil Engineering: WGLA Engineering, PLLC
Landscape Engineering: Siteworks Studios
Structural Engineering: Kloesel Engineering, PA
Interior Design: Division 12 Design Studio
Photographer: Mark Herboth, Mark Herboth Photography

Jury Comments: This elementary school is simple and direct – inserting a splash of color without being patronizing. The clear, well-organized plan makes good use of the site, creating a variety of inviting learning environments at many scales. It harvests natural light from multiple sources in nearly every space, both direct and borrowed. The building’s performance is particularly commendable.

Virginia Beach Sports Center (Virginia Beach, Va.)

Architecture Firm: Hanbury and Clark Nexsen
Owner: City of Virginia Beach Public Works (Tom Nicholas, PE, Representative)
General Contractor: MEB General Contractors
Photographers: Dave Chance, Dave Chance Photography and Yuzhu Zheng Photography

Jury Comments: This very simple, direct, rigid-frame building creates a set of large, open, daylit recreation spaces. The spaces and framed views make theater of the activities taking place every day.  The design “moves” are limited but focused.  The result is maximum effect with very limited means.

VCU Health, Adult Outpatient Pavilion (Richmond, Va.)

Architecture Firm: HDR
Owner: Virginia Commonwealth University Health System (Shirley Gibson, Representative)
General Contractor: Hourigan
Structural Engineering (parking/envelope): Walter P Moore
MEP Engineer: WSP
Civil Engineer: Draper Aden Assoc.
Curtain Wall: Ventana
Photographer: Dan Schwalm, HDR and Quentin Penn-Hollar, QPH Photo, LLC

Jury Comments: This large, programmatically complex building utilizes very simple variations in the curtainwall to express the individual program elements. These create subtle but engaging differences in the surface qualities without fracturing the character of the shape. The limited palette of materials and well-proportioned composition create a cohesive form at home in its context. The golden mesh is a comprehensive design move that accomplishes multiple goals. It covers the garage, defines and makes a grand entry, and creates a surprising ethereal surface quality.

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

Daughters of the American Revolution Constitution Hall (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: Quinn Evans
Owner: Daughters of the American Revolution (Stephen Nordholt, Representative)
General Contractor: Christman Company
MEP Engineering:  Greenman Pedersen Inc. and Loring Consulting Engineers
Historic Paint Finishes Specialist: Artifex Ltd.
Structural Engineer: 1200 Architectural Engineers
Theatrical Lighting and Theater Planning: Schuler Shook
Lighting Design (Phase 1): Gary Steffy Lighting Design
Acoustical Consulting: Jaffee Holden
Life Safety Engineering: GHD
Photographer: Ron Blunt Photography

Jury Comments: This restoration of a large historic meeting space seamlessly integrates lighting and mechanical systems to preserve the building and create a modern meeting venue. The historic spaces are brought back to “like-new” condition with a lighting strategy that transforms them into something entirely new.

Award of Merit

Antler House Restoration (East Hampton, N.Y.)

Architecture Firm: Two Street Studio
Owners: Chris Fisher and Blair Moritz
Contractor: CCI Construction Consultants
Interior Designer: Logan Killen Interiors + Blair Moritz
Photographer: Ashok Sinha

Jury Comments: A truly quirky and weird home had been stripped of its character by decades of ill-fated “improvements.” This restoration returns the home’s “hippie-coolness” in a very unapologetic fashion and creates a sympathetic addition. The interiors are consistent with the spirit of the home.  

 

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.

Award of Honor

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library (Washington, D.C.)

Executive Architect: OTJ Architects
Design Architect: Mecanoo
Owner: District of Columbia Public Library
General Contractor: Smoot Construction and Gilbane Building Company
Photographer: Trent Bell and Robert Benson Photography

Jury Comments: This interior reconsiders the Miesian masterpiece. The design identifies the existing building’s strengths and weaknesses and takes it into the present and the future. The addition of the sinuous stairs is a bold celebration of the inhabitants and a subtle criticism of the existing structure. Some of the original lighting and material strategies are maintained and extended to link the new

Award of Merit

Bill Richards Center for Healing (Rockville, Md.)

Architecture Firm: Gensler
Owner: Shady Grove Adventist Hospital Foundation
General Contractor: Deerfield Construction Group, Inc.
Photographer: Halkin Mason Photography

Jury Comments: This small, flexible interior accomplishes a lot by employing a limited set of tactics. The serpentine wood wall ties the interior together, shapes the public procession, and functionally screens equipment and clutter. Simple ceiling manipulations further subdivide the space and the use of indirect lighting gives a sense of breadth.

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.

Award of Honor

StoryBoard (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: KUBE architecture
Owner: Warmington Oppenheim Development
General Contractor: Warmington Oppenheim Development
Photographer: Anice Hoachlander

Jury Comments: This urban infill project ingeniously reinterprets the bay window to create a truly unique expression – at once sympathetic and new. The decision to recess the entries on both sides allows the façade to be disconnected from its neighbors, while clearly continuing the street wall. The new bay windows can be occupied, adding character to the interior spaces, and framing exterior views.

In the SMALL PROJECTS category

Design excellence can be achieved, no matter the size or scope of a project. These awards celebrate projects with modest budgets that have a substantial impact. Small Project Awards are given in three categories, offering opportunities for recognition to a wide range of project sizes and budgets. All projects must demonstrate design achievement, including how the project fits into its environment and how the project connects to the Framework for Design Excellence.

Award of Honor

Heirloom Farm Studio (location withheld)

Architecture Firm: Bushman Dreyfus Architects
Owner: withheld
Owner’s Design Representative: Ivy Naté
General Contractor: Element Construction
Photographer: Virginia Hamrick Photography

Jury Comments: This simple, almost archetypal structure is clad in a dark wooden exterior clearly juxtaposed against both the minimal white interior and the surrounding landscape. All the design decisions are focused and disciplined, resulting in something simultaneously abstract and familiar. A well-proportioned and beautifully crafted piece of work at home in the shadows beneath the tree line.

Award of Merit

Studio 6420 (location withheld)

Architecture Firm: Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect
Owner: withheld
General Contractor: Peterson & Collins, Inc.
Interior Design: Baron Gurney Interiors
Landscape Architect: Campion Hruby Landscape Architects
Photographer: Anice Hoachlander

Jury Comments: This small studio space and landscape employ a restrained set of tactics to shape both the exterior and interior space.  A common material palette ties the composition together. The car in the garage is likely more expensive than the garage that contains it – but equally as beautiful. A straightforward, well-detailed example of complex simplicity. 

Anne Marie Duvall Decker Announced as 2022 Design Awards Jury Chair

Anne Marie Duvall Decker, FAIA, founding principal of Duvall Decker Architects, will serve as the jury chair for the 2022 Design Awards program.

About the Design Awards

The Design Awards recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past eight years. The location of projects is not restricted, but any built works submitted for consideration must have been completed after January 1, 2015. The entry deadline is June 28, 2022.

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.

The Design Awards program is sponsored by:

GOLD
The Three Aspens

SILVER
Mafi
The Garland Company

About Anne Marie Duvall Decker, FAIA

Anne Marie Duvall Decker, FAIA, with her partner, Roy Decker, FAIA, founded Duvall Decker in Jackson, Mississippi — a place defined by both palpable need and engaging culture. The firm is a diverse and expanded practice, employing planning, development, design, and building care to promote the quality of the built environment and the health and well-being of its inhabitants. Duvall Decker delivers design excellence and promotes social, economic, and environmental quality, no matter the scope, type, budget, or scale of the project.

Anne Marie pursues a meaningful public architecture that elevates the individual human experience. She has designed award-winning public schools, affordable housing, state institutions, libraries, and university buildings that embrace their physical surrounds and cultural traditions with innovation and invention. She is the leader in the studio, fostering design quality, detailing building construction, making exemplary construction documents, and finding ways to be efficient and have joy in the work.  

Anne Marie Duvall Decker, FAIA, received a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Mississippi State University. She is a recognized contributor to the advancement of the profession. She has served as a board member and past President of AIA Mississippi and as a trustee and past Chair of the AIA Trust. Anne Marie is often invited to share the firm’s work and her experience as a lecturer, critic, teacher, and design juror, most recently serving as Visiting Professor of Practice at the University of Tennessee College of Architecture and Design. She has served on the jury for the 2018 AIA Institute Honor Awards for Architecture and as a selection committee member for the Architectural League of New York’s American Roundtable initiative. Most recently, she serves the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations as an Industry Advisory Group Peer.

Visions for Architecture 2021

The profession came together for the first time in nearly two years at Visions for Architecture on Nov. 5, 2021 to hear a talk by 2020 AIA Gold Medal winner Marlon Blackwell, FAIA and to celebrate the AIA Virginia Honors Awards and Design Awards. Photos by Yuzhu Zheng.

Visions for Architecture 2021 was generously sponsored by the following:

Visions for Architecture 2021 Sponsor Logos

2020 Design Awards Announced

AIA Virginia is pleased to announce the 2020 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. Within each of the 5 categories, consideration was given to sustainability, affordability, social impact, innovation, durability, addressing the natural and built context, and meeting the specific needs of the client.

From a field of 180 entries, only 33 were selected by the jury for recognition. These few projects stood above the rest as particularly notable. A project is recognized with an Honorable Mention for incorporating approaches that advance the profession.  Awards of Merit are presented to those project worthy of recognition and an Award of Honor is reserved for those projects deemed by the jury to be truly exceptional.

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

Foreign Affairs Security Training Center by  KieranTimberlake.

Foreign Affairs Security Training Center
(Blackstone, Va.)

Architecture Firm: KieranTimberlake
Owner: U.S. Department of State and the U.S. General Services Administration, Public Buildings Service Mid-Atlantic Region
Contractors: Hensel Phelps and Mortenson Construction
Photographer: Tim Griffith
Drone Photography: AECOM – FASTC Office
Rendering: Brooklyn Digital Foundry
Jury Comments: This project has inventive qualities. The jury noted that this submission was among the strongest in the category.

Museum at the Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Site / Devil’s Half Acre by SmithGroup

Museum at the Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Site / Devil’s Half Acre (unbuilt)

Architecture Firm: SmithGroup
Owner: City of Richmond, Va.
Consulting Architect, Interior Design: KEi Architects
Landscape Architecture: Mikyoung Kim Design
Civil Engineering: Greening Urban
Archaeology and Cultural Historic Preservation: Gray & Pape
Museum Planning and Development: Chora
Visitor Experience Planning: Gallagher & Associates
Jury Comments: The jury particularly appreciated this design as an appropriate response to the history of the site. They are looking forward to seeing the completed project.

Awards of Merit

The Aya by Studio Twenty Seven Architecture with Leo A Daly (joint venture)

The Aya (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firms: Studio Twenty Seven Architecture with Leo A Daly (joint venture)
Owner: District of Columbia Department of General Services
Photographer: Hoachlander Davis Photography
Structural Engineer: Silman Associates
MEP Engineer: SETTY & Associates
Civil Engineer: A. Morton Thomas
Geotechnical: ECS Capitol Services
Cost Estimate: TCT Cost Consultants
Land Use Attorney: Holland & Knight
Archeologist: John Milner Associates
Acoustical Engineer: Acoustical Design Collaborative
Jury Comments: This is a commendable affordable housing project. There is a nice relationship between façade and volume and the standard dwelling units are well designed.

New River Train Observation Tower  by students and faculty at Virginia Tech.

New River Train Observation Tower (Radford, Va.)

Designers: Virginia Tech faculty and students led by Prof. Kay Edge, RA, and Prof. Edward Becker, Intl. Assoc. AIA
Owner: Radford Heritage Foundation
Contractors: Edward Becker, Intl. Assoc. AIA and Kay Edge, RA
Photographer: Kay Edge, RA
Jury Comments: As a prototype, this nicely articulates a collaborative, exploratory research-based process. The team is to be commended.

Greer Environmental Sciences Center by VMDO Architects. Photo by Alan Karchmer

Greer Environmental Sciences Center at Virginia Wesleyan University (Virginia Beach, Va.)

Architecture Firm: VMDO Architects
Owner: Virginia Wesleyan University
Contractor: Hourigan Construction
Photographer: Alan Karchmer
Jury Comments: The commitment to sustainable strategies coupled with the overall quality of the exterior and interior design is notable.

Honorable Mention

Marvin Gaye Recreation Center + Trail (Washington, D.C.)

Firm Name: ISTUDIO Architects
Owner: DC Department of General Services
Contractor: MCN Build
Photographer: Hoachlander Davis Photography
Jury Comments: The jury particularly appreciated the passive strategies. The design team clearly accomplished a lot with this project

DC Water Headquarters by SmithGroup

DC Water Headquarters (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: SmithGroup
Owner: DC Water and Sewer Authority
Contractor: Skanska USA Building Inc.
Photographers: Alan Karchmer Photography, Emily Hagopian Photography
Landscape Architecture: OEHME van Sweden | OvS
Structural Engineering: The SK&A Group
Associate Architects/Associate Structural Designers: Leuterio Thomas, LLC
Associate MEP Engineers: JVP Engineers PC (now part of Ameresco)
Civil Engineering: Wiles Mensch Corporation
Commissioning: SETTY & Associates
Traffic Consultants: Gorovo/Slade Associates, Inc.
Program Managers: Samaha Associates, PC
Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment Consultant: Studio of Sandra Raan
Owner’s Representative: Constance Schwartz
Jury Comments: For a municipal infrastructure project on an unusual site, this LEED Platinum water plant was particularly notable.

FutureHAUS by students and faculty from Virginia Tech Center for Design Research

FutureHAUS (Blacksburg, Va.)

Design Team: Students and Faculty from Virginia Tech Center for Design Research
Owner: Virginia Tech
Photographer: Erik Thorsen
Jury comments: The jury was impressed with this solar-powered, net-positive concept home. It brought together a series of environmental strategies without looking like a pastiche. They also appreciated the plug-and-play cartridge construction which allowed the project to be easily shipped, assembled, and disassembled.

Co|Lab by William McDonough + Partners

Co|Lab (Falls Church, Va.)

Architecture Firm: William McDonough + Partners
Owner and Contractor: HITT Contracting
Photographer: John Cole Photography
Jury comments: The jury appreciated the lifecycle thinking and the use of CLT, noting that this project was designed for disassembly. “We need more of this,” they said.

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.

Award of Honor

Masoro Health Center by GAC

Masoro Health Center (Republic of Rwanda)

Architecture Firm: General Architecture Collaborative
Owner: Masoro Health Center
Contractor: Structure Stone
Photographers: James Setzler, Yutaka Sho, Leighton Beaman
Jury Comments: The jury agreed, as a whole, that this project was exemplary — it was their top choice. The site plan, in particular, was very well conceived.

Awards of Merit

American Civil War Museum by 3North

American Civil War Museum (Richmond, Va.)

Architecture Firm: 3North
Owner: American Civil War Museum
Contractor: Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Photographer: Keith Isaacs
Associate Architects: Madge Bemiss Architects and Robert Mills Architects
Structural Engineer: Balzer and Associates, Inc.
MEP Engineer: Lu+Smith Engineers
Civil Engineer: Draper Aden Associates
Exhibit Designer: Solid Light, Inc.
Jury Comments: In the U.S., it’s still a little contentious to bring together glass boxes with historical ruins, and this project does this quite effectively.

Honorable Mention

Capital Yacht Club by Cunningham | Quill Architects.

Capital Yacht Club (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: Cunningham | Quill Architects PLLC
Owner: Capital Yacht Club
Contractor: Clark Construction Group, LLC
Photographer: ALAN KARCHMER | PHOTOGRAPHER
Jury Comments: The jury appreciated this project’s relationship to a maritime motif. The designers did a good job of incorporating the exterior existing fabric into the design.

Carlton Union Building Renovation by Hanbury

Carlton Union Building Renovation at Stetson University (Deland, Fla.)

Design Architect/Architect of Record: Hanbury
Owner: Stetson University
Contractor: Williams Company
Photographer: Keith Isaacs
Jury Comments: “Talk about contextual,” the jury exclaimed. The design team stitched together a variety of different spaces very successfully.

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.

Awards of Honor

Carr's Hill Renovation by Glave & Holmes

Carr’s Hill Renovation at University of Virginia (Charlottesville, Va.)

Architecture Firm: Glavé & Holmes Architecture
Owner: University of Virginia
Associate Architect: John G. Waite Associates
Contractor: Alexander Nicholson
Photographer: Virginia Hamrick Photography
Landscape Architect: Wolf Josey Landscape Architects
Jury Comments: This project was really well done. “The details are amazing,” remarked the jury.

Folger Shakespeare Library (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: MTFA Architecture
Owner: Folger Shakespeare Library
Contractor: Dan Lepore & Sons Company
Photographer: Prakash Patel Photography
Jury Comments: This was an excellent example of materials conservation. The cleaning and color-matching are textbook examples of preservation.

Honorable Mention

Richard Neutra Renovation by 3North

Richard Neutra Renovation (Richmond, Va.)

Architecture Firm: 3North
Owner: David and Christy Cottrell
Contractor: Mako Builders, Inc.
Photographer: Ansel Olson
Structural Engineer: Ehlert Bryan Consulting
Interior Designer: Todd Yoggy
Jury comments: Though this was submitted in a different category, they jury thought this project was notable enough to warrant recognition in the historic preservation category for its respect of the original design and the sensitive preservation of character and materiality.

Note: This project was also recognized with an award in the Residential category.

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.

Award of Honor

Quirk Hotel (Charlottesville) by ARCHITECTUREFIRM

Quirk Hotel (Charlottesville, Va.)

Architecture Firm: ARCHITECTUREFIRM
Owner: Quirk Charlottesville, LLC
Contractor: Martin Horn
Photographer: James Ewing / JBSA & Kate Thompson
Jury Comments: Though the spaces vary in scale, there is a consistency throughout. The treatment of the arched windows, the view to the streetscape, the hallway, and the accents: they’re are all well done. “I thought this was just outstanding,” said one juror.

Awards of Merit

McKinnon and Harris Flagship by Architecture AF

McKinnon and Harris Flagship (New York, N.Y.)

Architecture Firm: Architecture AF
Owner: McKinnon and Harris
Contractor: Tribeca Restoration
Photographer: Ashok Sinha
Lighting Designer: Ventresca Design
Jury Comments: Through embracing the company’s all-white branding, the designers created a very pleasing space, bringing focus to the products in this retail environment. The stair and railing are very nice, as is the detailing. “It’s just beautifully put together,” the jury said.

ASLA Center for Landscape Architecture by Gensler

ASLA Center for Landscape Architecture (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: Gensler
Owner: ASLA Center for Landscape Architecture
Contractor: Coakley & Williams Construction, Inc.
Photographer: Halkin Mason
Jury Comments: The jury was impressed by the spirit of landscape carried throughout the building, from the handling of beacon signage focusing on green vegetation at the exterior to the careful handling of rainwater-harvesting and irrigation on the roof.

Potter’s Craft Cider at Neve Hall  by Studio FIGURE

Potter’s Craft Cider at Neve Hall (Charlottesville, Va.)

Architecture Firm: Studio FIGURE
Owner: Dan Potter and Tim Edmond
Contractor: Evergreen Builders
Photographer: Nick Brinen Photography
Jury Comments: This project has a subtlety to it. It’s a really nice retrofit. Instead of tearing things down, the designers showed a balanced restraint – even the lighting isn’t intrusive. “I want to be in this space,” said one juror.

Honorable Mention

Subterranean Studio by mcdowellespinosa architects

Subterranean Studio (Charlottesville, Va.)

Architecture Firm: mcdowellespinosa architects
Owner: Seth and Megan McDowell
Contractor: mcdowellespinosa architects
Photographer: mcdowellespinosa architects
Jury Comments: While hesitant to elevate a project with little natural light, the jury particularly appreciated the lighting treatment and ceiling design which brought an organizing element to this subterranean space.

National Council of Architectural Registration Boards by OTJ Architects

National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: OTJ Architects
Client: NCARB
Tenant Brokerage and Project Management: Cresa
Contractor: Bognet Construction
Photographer: Trent Bell Photography
Jury Comments: The details on this project are well conceived and history has been incorporated in a clever way. The jury was pleased that NCARB is “walking the talk” and earning LEED Gold and Fitwel certification for the space.

Waterview Condominium by Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect. Photo (c) Maxwell MacKenzie.

Waterview Condominium (Arlington, Va.)

Architecture Firm: Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect
Project Architect: Nicole Dejong
Owner: withheld
Contractor: Peterson and Collins Inc.
Photographer: Maxwell MacKenzie
Interior Designer: Baron Gurney Interiors
Structural Engineer: Tadjer Cohen Edelson Associates Inc.
Jury Comments: The jury appreciated the rigor of the ceiling’s folded planes and lighting plan.

Offices for an Investment Firm by Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect

Offices for an Investment Firm (Bethesda, Md.)

Architecture Firm: Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect
Project Architect: Claire Andreas
Owner: withheld
Contractor: Bognet Construction
Photographer: John Cole Photography
Interior Designer: Baron Gurney Interiors
Jury Comments: “Organizing the offices around the curving steel wall was a compelling move,” the jury remarked.

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.

Award of Honor

Richard Neutra Renovation by 3North

Richard Neutra Renovation (Richmond, Va.)

Architecture Firm: 3North
Owner: David and Christy Cottrell
Contractor: Mako Builders, Inc.
Photographer: Ansel Olson
Structural Engineer: Ehlert Bryan Consulting
Interior Designer: Todd Yoggy
Jury Comments: This was a careful and surgical upgrade to a modernist masterpiece. It was just plain inspiring in its rigor. Exquisite.

Awards of Merit

3131 CBR (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: David Jameson Architect
Owner: withheld
Contractor: Ally DC
Photographer: Paul Warchol Photography
Jury Comments: Beautiful clean lines and use of materials.

3333 Q St. by Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect. Photo (c) Maxwell MacKenzie Architectural Photographer.

3333 Q St. (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect
Project Leads: Kara McHone and Mateusz Dzierzanowski
Owner: withheld
Contractor: Commonwealth Building and Design
Photographer: Maxwell MacKenzie Architectural Photographer
Interior Designer: Baron Gurney Interiors
Engineer: Robert Silman Associates
Landscape Architect: Campion Hruby Landscape Architects
Jury Comments: The use of the open corner facade to orient to the landscape and pool is exceptional. The clever use of glazing, doors, and the site created spaces that flow between interior and exterior.

Franzen House by Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect

Franzen House (Bethesda, Md.)

Architecture Firm: Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect
Project Leads: Sarah Solander and Nicole Dejong
Owner: withheld
Contractor: Commonwealth Building and Design
Photographer: Anice Hoachlander
Engineer: United Structural Engineers
Jury Comments: Great use of the site section to create high internal volume and views out to the surrounding tree canopies. The balance between the front and rear façades is impressive

Honorable Mention

Hither Hill Residence by ARCHITECTUREFIRM

Hither Hill Residence (Montauk, N.Y.)

Architecture Firm: ARCHITECTUREFIRM
Owner: Withheld
Contractor: Forden & Co. Builders
Photographer: James Ewing / JBSA
Jury Comments: Each building on the site is done with care to proportion and detail and eloquence. The two volumes are carefully and well-sited in the surrounding landscape.

Vapor House by David Jameson Architect

Vapor House (Bethesda, Md.)

Architecture Firm: David Jameson Architect
Owner: withheld
Contractor: Ally DC
Photographer: Paul Warchol Photography
Jury Comments: There is a nice contrast between that textured, reflective quality of the cladding and the flat matte panels that define the programmatic volumes. This play between the surfaces helps to breakdown the massing.

Duvall CourtDuvall Court by KUBE architecture PC

Duvall Court (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: KUBE architecture PC
Owner: ANND LLC
Contractor: OPAL CUSTOM HOMES and RENOVATIONS LLC
Photographer: Greg Powers Photography
Jury Comments: A very clever project with clean lines. It’s a great model for the development of alley lots.

Alley Armor by KUBE architecture PC

Alley Armor (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: KUBE architecture PC
Owner: Dean Storer & Lamar Whitman
Contractor: Milloy Carpentry
Photographer: Paul Burk Photography
Steel Fabricator: Metal Specialties
Jury Comments: This adaptive reuse really works within an existing urban fabric. The small outdoor space is magical. Natural light and perforated and angled-metal and wood slats create privacy and atmosphere – all above a mundane garage.

Renovation 1662 by Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect

Renovation 1662 (Washington, D.C.)

Architecture Firm: Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect
Project Architect: Claire Andreas
Owner: withheld
Contractor: Washington Landmark Construction
Photographer: Anice Hoachlander
Landscape Design: Campion Hruby Landscape Architecture
Structural Engineer: United Structural Engineers, Inc.
Jury Comments: A bright, clean, and lofty addition to what would be a typical dark and cramped row house.

About the Jury

Mark Gardner, AIA, NOMA | Jury Chair
Principal at Jaklitsch/Gardner Architects, New York

Monica Rhodes
National Park Foundation, Washington D.C.

Phu Hoang AIA, FAAR
Founding Director at MODU, New York

Reid Freeman, AIA
Principal at Reid Architecture PLLC, New York

Jennifer Newsom, AIA, LEED AP, NOMA, NCARB
Principal, Dream the Combine, Minneapolis  

Julie Torres-Moskovitz, AIA, LEED AP, CPHC/CPHT
Founding Principal, FNA Architecture, New York

About the Awards

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, 2012. 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.

Mark Gardner Announced as 2020 Design Awards Jury Chair

Principal of New York-based firm Jaklitsch/Gardner Architects and Director for the Parsons New School MArch program Mark Gardner, AIA, NOMA will serve as the jury chair for the 2020 Design Awards program.

About Mark Gardner, AIA, NOMA

Gardner takes a serious interest in the nexus of architecture and art — one of long-standing importance to both his professional practice and his writings. He is committed to practicing architecture as a socially beneficial art form.

Jaklitsch / Gardner Architects is an award-winning design practice with an international reputation for design excellence, material research, and its exacting commitment to craft. The firm has won an AIA National Honor Award and numerous AIANY, NOMA, and Architizer design awards. The practice is currently working with a non-profit partner on a Honey Bee Study Center in Dodoma, Tanzania.

Gardner is the Assistant Professor of Architectural Practice and Society at the School of the Constructed Environments, Parsons the New School. He’s on the Board of Overseers for the University of Pennsylvania Weitzman School Of Design, where he is helping the school study issues of diversity and inclusion. He also currently serves on the board of the Youth Design Center (YDC), a nonprofit on a mission to reduce the number of disconnected youth in Brownsville, Brooklyn by lowering their barriers to entry to the STEAM professions and increasing their relevant experience in the innovation economy.

He is Past President and former Advocacy Chair for nycobaNOMA, the New York Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects. He is a member of the AIANY Exhibition Committee and Past Co-Chair and current member of the AIANY Diversity & Inclusion Committee. He is Vanguard Member of the Van Alen Institute’s Board of Trustees and a Fellow of the Urban Design Forum.

About the Design Awards

AIA Virginia’s Awards for Excellence in Architecture recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past eight years. The location of projects is not restricted, but any built works submitted for consideration must have been completed after January 1, 2012. 

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.

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.

Highlights from Visions for Architecture 2019

The profession came together at Visions for Architecture on Nov. 8, 2019 to celebrate AIA Virginia Honors Awards and Design Awards. Photos by Yuzhu Zheng.

Visions for Architecture is generously supported by:

Underwriter Sponsors
3north
VMDO

Patron Sponsors
Clark Nexsen
Glave & Holmes Architecture
Hanbury
O’Hagan Meyer
Riverside Brick & Supply Co., Inc.

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.