The 2023 AIA Northern Virginia Design Awards were a resounding success! 

The Chapter received more than 100 entries across seven categories, with awards presented to firms whose projects included and demonstrated a level of good design principles of the 21st Century. With four levels in each category possible, the awards recognize and celebrate the achievements AIA Northern Virginia members have created in the design of the built environment. This year, two juries were gathered at AIA Chicago to review and deliberate on the projects submitted within each category. Each jury was impressed with the quality of work across their assigned categories and gave spirited commentary in support of their preferred projects.

The evening began with a Gilbane Construction-led tour of the award-winning Heights Building, designed by Bjarke Ingles Group and Leo A Daly. After the tour, attendees gathered for the Gala reception at CannonDesign’s Arlington Virginia office and were afforded an opportunity to share great conversation, food and fellowship with their colleagues and architects from around the region. 

Following the reception, attendees enjoyed the Heights Building’s main auditorium space and watched as Kevin Sneed, FAIA, led the evening’s presentation announcing thirty-six winners. The awards presentations are accompanied by video, with each award receiving accompanying juror commentary. The evening wound down with a group picture of the honorees, while coffee, dessert and additional treats were provided for the closing by the events’ Signature sponsor, Jacobs. Thank you to all this year’s Design Awards Sponsors, we couldn’t do it without you. Please watch for announcements regarding the 2024 Design Awards Program and Gala and make time to enter your work into the competition so you too can be honored for your great designs! 

–Roland G. Lemke, AIA, 2023 Design Awards Committee Co-Chair