The Vermont Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) recently announced the recipients of the 2024 Excellence in Architecture Design Awards, recognizing six outstanding projects from 24 submitted by AIA member architects.

The winners, selected by a jury from the Montana chapter of AIA, were awarded in three categories: Honor, Merit, and Citation. The judging criteria followed the AIA Framework for Design Excellence. Additionally, the Peers' Choice Award was chosen by the 130 attendees at the AIA Vermont Annual Meeting and Design Awards event held at The Essex Resort on December 5.

Among the honorees, Ridgeline in northern Vermont won an Honor Award in the single-family residential category for its stunning design featuring undulating rooflines, oak ceilings, and water conservation elements. The MilkHouse in the Northeast Kingdom earned a Merit Award for its multi-generational, all-electric design inspired by traditional milk houses.

The Lake View Apartments in Burlington, with its innovative foundation design and beautiful vistas, also received a Merit Award in the commercial/institutional/multi-family category. The East Calais General Store, a 1850s structure revived by a community trust, won a Citation Award for its historic preservation efforts.

Accessory, a 742-square-foot garage-office structure in Shelburne, received a Citation Award in the small projects category, and the Winooski Schools renovation and expansion project earned a Citation Award for transforming an outdated facility into a modern, 850-student school.

Finally, the Nest @ 79 Pine in Burlington, a nine-story residential tower, won the Peers' Choice Award for its green building practices and urban landmark status. The awards highlight excellence in architectural design and the impact these projects have on the community.