For over 20 years, the American Institute of Architects has recognized projects that represent state-of-the-art learning environments. Schools, museums, community centers, libraries, nature centers and interpretive centers are evaluated for new projects that further the cause of design while they advance the goals of the institution.
Selected projects must meet a host of criteria, including enhancing learning in classrooms; balancing function with aesthetics; establishing a connection with the environment; being respectful of the surrounding community; demonstrating high-level planning in the design process; and integrating sustainability in a holistic fashion.
The Flight 93 Visitor and Learning Center in western Pennsylvania commemorates the 40 heroes that … [+]
©2015 Eric Staudenmaier
Projects may include new construction, additions and renovations. Winners are chosen by a jury; between six and 12 projects are honored every year. The 2021 awards include six Awards of Excellence, while five additional projects were selected for the Awards of Merit, recognized for being of superior quality.
The Awards of Excellence winners are:
- Belmont Day School Barn, Boston | Utile, Inc.
- Bluestone Elementary School, Harrisonburg, Virginia | VMDO Architects
- Environmental Nature Center Preschool, Newport Beach, California | LPA Design Studios
- Home Building at Thaden School, Bentonville, Arkansas | Eskew+Dumez+Ripple
- Lafayette College Rockwell Integrated Sciences Center, Easton, Pennsylvania | Payette
- The Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact at University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon | Ennead Architects in collaboration with Bora Architecture and Interiors
The Awards of Merit winners are:
- Flight 93 Visitor and Learning Center, Denver, Colorado | Paul Murdoch Architects
- Grant High School Modernization, Portland, Oregon | Mahlum Architects
- Minnehaha Academy Upper School Reconstruction, Minneapolis | Cuningham Group Architecture
- Pace University Student Landscape, New York | FXCollaborative
- Virginia Wesleyan University Greer Environmental Sciences Center, Virginia Beach, Virginia | VMDO Architects
Founded in 1857, AIA consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through more than 200 international, state and local chapters, AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing.