The 2024 AIA Northern Virginia Design Awards have launched, and the jury sessions to review submissions are complete. After receiving more than 100 entries across seven categories, two juries were gathered at AIA Dallas on June 14 to review and deliberate on those chosen within each category. The jury was very impressed with the quality of work across all categories and gave spirited commentary in their support of each jurors’ preferred projects.

Recognition was given by jurors to submissions which include and demonstrate a high level of 21st-century principles of good design. With four different award levels in each category, the honors highlight and celebrate the achievements AIA Northern Virginia members have created in the design of the built environment.

This year’s Design Award Gala will be held at the National Museum of the United States Army in Fort Belvoir, VA. The evening will kick off with an optional tour of the building by Skidmore Owings and Merrill (SOM). After the tour, attendees will gather for the Gala reception in the Medal of Honor Garden, weather permitting. The Design Award presentation will be held in Veterans Hall and will be hosted by AIA NoVA Past President & HDR (Arlington) Managing Principal, April C. Drake, and long-time Design Award committee member and SM&W Principal, Robyne Hamilton, Assoc. AIA. 

For the first time, AIA NoVA will offer an opportunity to purchase a limited-number Celebratory Package – VIP Tables at the Design Award Gala event, which include 8 tickets, a table with reserved seating for use during the presentation allowing for sufficient space so that you can bring your team and client(s) to the event — and all sit together to enjoy the evening — plus a dedicated alcove within Veterans Hall for your ‘stuff’. Add in champagne, gourmet treats, and a few more surprises too! Look for this opportunity to purchase a Gala Celebratory Package in upcoming ticket purchase announcements.

The evening will conclude in the Veterans’ Hall foyer with coffee and dessert for attendees, and a group photo of all the award winners. Watch for announcements for the 2024 Design Awards Gala tickets and remember — please bring your colleagues and clients to the event so that we can all celebrate great design together.

— Roland G. Lemke, AIA, 2024 Design Award Co-Chair