Saluting the work of its member architects, AIA Columbus presented two honor awards and five merit awards at a December 5 program at Ohio State University. A jury from AIA Denver, chaired by Joseph Poli, AIA, Humphries Poli Architects, selected the winning projects from a field of 60 entries. The other jury members were Lawrence Doane, FAIA; Mary Morissette, AIA; Andrew Moss, AIA; and Jeff Sheppard, AIA. Pella Corporation sponsored the awards.

The chapter also presented its first annual Designing Towards Sustainability Award, sponsored by Interface, to DesignGroup for its work on the Anthem Corporate Headquarters in Warren County, Ohio. The awards, along with project descriptions from AIA Columbus, are presented below.

Honor Awards

Science Village, Phase 1, Columbus, Ohio, by Lincoln Street Studio, Ltd.
The project, a new research and development facility, creates a strong dialogue between the building and its natural surroundings. The design celebrates technology through the exterior materials and exposed structure, while the shape of the building responds to its narrow and linear site constraints. Natural light floods the interiors through gaps and openings in the exterior curtain-wall skin.

The World Peace Bell and Pavilion, Covington, Ky., by NBBJ
The project-a steel-frame and frosted, tempered glass structure to support the World Peace Bell commemorating the Millennium-complements the urban fabric of Covington. The materials evoke the strong heritage of the steel bridges that span the Ohio River while respecting the scale and character of the surrounding neighborhood.

Merit Awards

Midwestern Auto Group, Dublin, Ohio, by Karlsberger Cos.
The design of this automobile dealership fuses form and function to create a sleek European aesthetic befitting the automobiles within. The building creates zones related to retail and service while maintaining a uniform flow through interior materials, colors, and circulation. The dynamic interior features elliptical ramps and various floor levels. The exterior façade and landscape further evoke an aesthetic of speed and motion.

Innovation Center, Columbus, by Lincoln Street Studio, Ltd.
The project, an adaptive reuse of an existing structure, features an innovative and exciting transformation of interior architecture. The interior space features elements of a small city--corridors and rooms intermingle to create vistas and opportunities for dynamic interaction. Vibrant colors and nontraditional forms further complement the energy of the work environment.

Student Life Center, Hampton, Va., by Moody/Nolan, Ltd.
Nestled in the heart of Hampton University, the project creates an important center for student activity. The building features a three-story atrium and grand staircase. Functions include a food court, an auditorium, and administrative areas. The upper level features a student fitness center. The exterior features energy-conscious materials and is designed for future vertical expansion.

Student Recreation Center, Morgantown, W. Va., by Moody/Nolan, Ltd.
Designed to accommodate a sloping site at the University of West Virginia, the project's exterior form and materials are carefully choreographed to complement their surroundings. The building creates a pedestrian-friendly gateway into the campus. The interior program features various student recreational/athletic functions including a natatorium, rock-climbing wall, and gymnasium.

Longaberger Alumni House, Columbus, by Wandel & Schnell, Architects, Inc.
The project, located along the Olentangy River, functions as a visual and thematic link to campus for Ohio State alumni. The exterior form and interior space planning is fused by strategic placement of windows and terraces to capture views of the campus. The interior features a spacious double-height lobby, main gallery, and meeting rooms.

Copyright 2001 The American Institute of Architects. All rights reserved.