#USA #Inc. #Boston #Boston Society for Architecture #Harleston Parker Medal #Utile

Celebration of Architectural Excellence at the BSA Awards

The Boston Society for Architecture (BSA) kicked off its annual awards gala last night, a prestigious event that highlights exceptional contributions to the architectural landscape of Boston and its surroundings. This year's ceremony recognized 23 outstanding design projects and remarkable individuals, all aimed at promoting excellence in architecture and community empowerment.

Honoring the Best of Design

One of the most notable awards presented during the evening was the prestigious Harleston Parker Medal, awarded to the Roxbury Branch of the Boston Public Library Renovation. Designed by Utile, Inc., this renovation project exemplifies innovative architecture, transforming a brutalist structure into a welcoming community hub. The jury commended the project for its effective community engagement and the unique design elements that enhance user experience. Danyson Tavares, the executive director of the BSA, emphasized the importance of architecture in shaping environments and fostering equity, describing the gala as a celebration of creativity and community impact.

Projects of varying scales and purposes were presented to a jury of architects, public servants, and design professionals from across the nation. The awards were categorized into three levels: Honor, Merit, and Impact Advancement Commendation, acknowledging a variety of achievements in architectural design.

2024 Award Winners

Here’s a glimpse of some of the notable winners recognized at the gala:

Harleston Parker Medal

• - Project: Roxbury Branch of the Boston Public Library Renovation (2020)

Firm: Utile, Inc.

Harleston Parker People's Choice Award

• - Project: Harvard University District Energy Facility (2021)

Firm: Leers Weinzapfel Associates Architects

Honor Awards in Built Design Excellence

• - Educational Facilities: Bowdoin College, Barry Mills Hall and the John Lile Gibbons Center for Arctic Studies by HGA
• - Housing: Jackson Hole Workforce Housing by Merge Architects, Inc.
• - Adaptive Reuse: Aliki Perroti and Seth Frank Lyceum at Amherst College by Bruner/Cott Architects

Additionally, special honors were granted, including the Commonwealth Award and the Earl R. Flansburgh Young Designer's Award, celebrating emerging talents in the field. This year, the Commonwealth Award recognized UMass BRUT and the Rose Kennedy Greenway, with Maryann Thompson receiving the BSA Award of Honor for her contributions to architecture.

The Vision of BSA

The Boston Society for Architecture has been instrumental in improving the quality of life for Boston-area residents through its commitment to innovative and sustainable architecture. With a network of over 4,500 members, the BSA acts to connect architects, firms, and allied professionals to foster collaboration and creative solutions that address social equity within the built environment.

In celebrating their achievements, the BSA underscores the need for continuous community engagement and creativity in architecture, shaping spaces that truly serve the public good. As the evening concluded, participants were reminded of the significant role architecture plays in embedding sustainability and inclusivity into community design.

For further insights and images of the award-winning projects, visit designawards.architects.org. The gala also acknowledges its key sponsors, particularly Ground, Inc., for their support in driving architectural excellence within Boston.

As 2024 unfolds, the BSA remains dedicated to advancing these values, shaping a more sustainable and equitable future for all Boston residents through the power of architectural design.