The Architect’s Newspaper (AN)’s inaugural 2013 Best of Design Awards featured six categories. Since then, it’s grown to 26 exciting categories. As in years past, jury members (Erik Verboon, Claire Weisz, Karen Stonely, Christopher Leong, Adrianne Weremchuk, and AN’s Matt Shaw) were picked for their expertise and high regard in the design community. They based their judgments on evidence of innovation, creative use of new technology, sustainability, strength of presentation, and, most importantly, great design. We want to thank everyone for their continued support and eagerness to submit their work to the Best of Design Awards. We are already looking forward to growing next year’s coverage for you.
2016 Best of Design Award for Adaptive Restoration: The Cotton Gin at The Co-Op District
Architects: Antenora Architects
Location: Hutto, TX
As part of a new master plan for this 16-acre former agricultural co-op site, two cotton gin buildings were adapted into an open-air public events space. Perforated stainless steel on the south facade fills the area with diffused natural light while accentuating the delicacy and elegance of the original structure.
Structural Engineer
Architectural Engineers Collaborative [AEC]
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing
TTG
General Contractor
American Constructors
Wall Panels
Centria
Lighting Supplier
ERT Lighting
Honorable Mention, Adaptive Restoration: The Cistern
Architect: Page
Location: Houston, TX
A minimal approach was taken to repurpose the 90-year-old decommissioned drinking water reservoir cistern into a destination and civic art space that is accessible and enjoyable. Soft LED lighting from the entry tunnel continues in transparent handrails around the perimeter of the 221 concrete columns within 87,500 square feet.
Honorable Mention, Adaptive Restoration: Fisher Hill Reservoir Park Gatehouse
Architect: Touloukian Touloukian Inc.
Location: Brookline, MA
This former reservoir was acquired by a local municipality to serve as a new soccer field. The original 1887 gatehouse became a restroom and the restoration includes full masonry re-pointing, roof and window replacement—a thoughtful marriage of the historic and the modern to preserve a strong sense of place.
