The Chicago chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA Chicago) has announced the winners of its 63rd annual Design Excellence Awards at Designight 2018 ceremony. More than 1,000 architecture, engineering and construction industry leaders and professionals attended this year's event.
"Each year, we are proud to honor Chicago architects who continue to meet ever-changing project demands with progressive approaches that not only pay homage to rich architectural traditions but also address evolving global and cultural shifts with diverse and innovative solutions," said AIA Chicago Executive Vice President Zurich Esposito, Hon. AIA.
Thirty-three awards were presented to projects in four categories: Distinguished Building, Divine Detail, Interior Architecture and Unbuilt FORWARD. In its first year, the new Unbuilt FORWARD Award recognizes architectural design for projects that will not see completion but put a focus on relevant social, cultural and environmental challenges, as well as technological innovations that will drive the architecture profession into the future.
Among the entries awarded were a number of educational projects, including HBRA Architects' University of Notre Dame Jenkins and Nanovic Halls, Lothan Van Hook DeStefano Architecture's Legacy Charter Schools, Perkins+Will's Campus International School, STL Architects' The French International School, Studio Gang's University of Chicago North Residential Commons, and Woodhouse Tinucci Architects' University of Chicago Logan Center KilnHouse.
"This year, in particular, we saw many remarkable institutional projects that reimagined educational spaces as vibrant, inspirational destinations that truly have the ability to revitalize a community. These projects went beyond function - demonstrating unique details, intelligent concepts and distinction in architecture," noted the jury.
This year's Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Peter Landon, FAIA, founder of Landon Bone Baker Architects (LBBA), established in 1987. With more than 40 years in practice, Landon's portfolio includes a multitude of urban development and affordable housing projects. He attributes LBBA's success and ability to offer designs that address the needs of diverse populations to its long-term relationships with developers, housing advocates and the local community.