The AIA Board of Directors on December 6 named the Miller/Hull Partnership
(Miller/Hull), Seattle, as recipient of the 2003 AIA Architecture Firm
Award.
Thank you very much, that's just so great, said Miller/Hull
principal and founding partner Robert E. Hull, FAIA, when notified by
President Gordon Chong, FAIA, that his firm had been selected for the
award. We have the whole office gathered here around the phone,
and we are very happy.
Working
from their Pacific Northwest base, Miller/Hulls designs have been
identified as representing the next generation of regional Modernism,
also known as the Northwest Style, and are characterized by
a woodsy or natural theme, sharp lines, and classic boxy shapes. It is
applied to homes and commercial spaces through use of exposed timber,
large windows, and other materials inspired by the regions rugged
landscape and evergreen colors.
In nominating the firm, Northwest and Pacific Region Board Member and
2003 Secretary of the Board Bruce Blackmer, AIA, commented, Their
exquisitely designed buildings respond to the unique environment within
which they are located like few others. Their innovative approach has
created a body of work of substance and authenticity without falling into
stylistic trappings. Blackmer also noted that Miller/Hull has been
committed to excellence in design and environmental responsibility since
their inception. Theyve set precedence for architecture influenced
by local climate, materials, and culture, and have demonstrated the applicability
of these ideas for any region. In an era when buildings look the
same worldwide, says Blackmer, Miller/Hull has defined Pacific
Northwest Regional Modernism in a way that inspires architects around
the globe to respond to the unique characteristics of their own regions.
Earth-friendly
architecture
Founded in 1977, Miller/Hull is led today by 4 partners, 3 principals,
and 38 associates. The firms primary goal is to inspire diverse
communities through creative, inventive, and enriching architecture. These
ideals are personified in public projects such as Fisher Pavilion at Seattle
Center, the Point Roberts Port of Entry, and Bainbridge Island City Hall.
Miller/Hulls attention to environmental responsibility and sustainable
design is what characterizes its work. This awareness extends to design
features that range from integration of storm water and site drainage
with landscaping to use of earth-friendly building materials.
Miller/Hulls diverse client base includes national and local government
agencies, academic institutions, private developers, corporations, and
residential owners. The design philosophy of the firm centers on creating
significant places within context that are environmentally sensitive.
In
the 24 years since its inception, the firm has won 120 awards, including
two national AIA Honor Awards. Other recent awards include the Seattle
Design Commission Commendation Award (2002), AIA Seattle Merit Award (2001),
AIA Seattle Housing NW Merit Award (2002), and Federal Design Achievement
Award (1999).
Miller/Hulls work can be seen in suburban communities (Roddy/Bale
Residence, Bellevue, Wash.); urban environments (1310 East Union, Seattle);
waterfront developments (Seattle Community CollegeMarine Tech. Facility);
civic centers (City Hall, Bainbridge, Wash.); and rural sites (Campbell
Orchard House, Decatur Island, Wash., and Novontry Cabin. Tieton, Wash.).
Copyright 2002 The American Institute of Architects.
All rights reserved.
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