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Excellence in Architecture

SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2026 |

2025 AIA Nebraska DESIGN AWARDS RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE IN ARCHITECTURE ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD Joslyn Art Museum, Alley Poyner Machietto Architecture | Snøhetta SEE PG 4

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD Osborne Legacy Complex, BVH Architecture SEE PG 6

UNBUILT ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD U.S. Army XVIII Airborne Corps Command & Control Headquarters, HDR SEE PG 7

January 4, 2026 | Special Section

Excellence in Architecture

T2 | SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2026

BEST OF THE BEST

The American Institute of Architects, Nebraska Chapter Excellence in Design

AIA Nebraska, A Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, is pleased to announce the 2025 Excellence in Design Award winners. This year the jury reviewed 98 projects. The AIA Nebraska Jury, comprised of Chicago architects including:  Jury Chair, Andy Tinucci, AIA, LEED AP, Principal at WoodhouseTinucci Architects  Adana Johns, AIA, LEED AP, BD+C, Principal, Science and Technology, Chicago, Perkins&Will  Gabriel Wilcox, AIA, LEED AP, CPHC, NCARB, Director of Sustainable Design, Krueck Sexton Partners  Ann Lui, AIA, Founding Principal, Future Firm The Excellence in Design program is an annual event for Nebraska architects who submit built and unbuilt projects for consideration. Categories for consideration include Architecture, Interior Architecture, Unbuilt, Details, Masonry, and Regional & Urban Design. AIA Nebraska supports architects in fulfilling their commitment to excellence in design and livability in our buildings and communities. Further information on this year’s design winners and past winners can be found on The American Institute of Architects, Nebraska Chapter’s website. www.aia.org/nebraska

2025 AIA Nebraska Board of Directors PRESIDENT Heather Hughes, AIA DLR Group

AIA LINCOLN CHAIR Alberto Sanchez, AIA Davis Design

PRESIDENT-ELECT Jonathan Oswald, AIA HDR

AIA WESTERN NE CHAIR Megan Hayward, AIA Trails West Architecture

SECRETARY Richard Onken, AIA Alesia Architecture

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Troy Keilig, AIA CMBA Architects

TREASURER Josh Silvers, AIA Wilkins ADP

UNL COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE REPRESENTATIVE David Karle, Assoc. AIA University of Nebraska Lincoln College of Architecture

DIRECTOR Patrick Leahy, AIA Emergent Architecture DIRECTOR Hannah Schafers, AIA Clark & Enersen ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR Corey Thiele, Assoc. AIA RDG Planning & Design ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR Tiffany Schlick, Assoc. AIA Design 2aT AIA OMAHA CHAIR Matthew Stoffel, AIA HDR

NEBRASKA FURNITURE MART OF TEXAS

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AIAS NEBRASKA PRESIDENT Audrey Cherek, AIAS University of Nebraska Lincoln College of Architecture ARCHITECTS IN ACTION REPRESENTATIVE Patrick Leahy, AIA Emergent Architecture EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Sara Kay, Hon. AIA AIA Nebraska

AIA Credits: A special advertising section of the Omaha World-Herald produced in conjunction with AIA Nebraska, a Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. Executive Director: Sara A. Kay, Hon. AIA, 402-858-1929; sara@aiane.org On the cover: Architecture Honor Award; Joslyn Art Museum designed by Alley Poyner Machietto Architecture and Snøhetta, Interior Architecture Honor Award; Osborne Legacy Complex designed by BVH Architecture, Unbuilt Architecture Honor Award; U.S. Army XVIII Airborne Corps Command & Control Headquarters designed by HDR.

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN DESIGN AND SERVICE

For special section advertising information contact Tierney Clifford (tclifford@owh.com).

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Involve an architect in your project early...

Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture 1516 Cuming St. Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 341-1544 www.alleypoyner.com 302 E. Coolbaugh St. Red Oak, IA 51566 (712) 623-6888 www.alleypoyner.com

BVH Architecture 901 Jones St. Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 345-3060 www.bvh.com 440 N. 8th St., Suite 100 Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 475-4551 www.bvh.com

Clark & Enersen 1010 Lincoln Mall, Suite 200 Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 477-9291 www.clarkenersen.com 6464 Center St., Suite 140 Omaha, NE 68106 (531) 800-5015 www.clarkenersen.com

CMBA Architects 1111 13th St., Suite 205 Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 346-6891 www.cmbaarchitects.com

10404 Essex Ct., Suite 101 Omaha, NE 68114 (319) 529-3925 www.emergentarch.com

208 N. Pine St., Suite 301 Grand Island, NE 68801 (308) 384-4444 www.cmbaarchitects.com Frasier Martis Architects, P.C. 1005 S. 76th St., Suite 103 Omaha, NE 68114 (402) 397-7331 www.fmarchitects.com

Davis Design 1221 N St., Suite 600 Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 476-9700 www.davisdesign.com

HDR 1917 S. 67th St. Omaha, NE 68106 (402) 399-1000 www.hdrinc.com

DLR Group 6457 Frances St., Suite 200 Omaha, NE 68106 (402) 393-4100 www.dlrgroup.com 1128 Lincoln Mall, Suite 103 Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 742-4200 www.dlrgroup.com

1248 O St., Suite 716 Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 742-2900 www.hdrinc.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2026 |

...and get more than you even projected.

Omaha, NE 68132 (402) 551-0800 www.hollandbasham.com 2021 Transformation Dr. Suite 1100 Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 551-0800 www.hollandbasham.com

Kenneth Hahn Architects, Inc. 1343 S. 75th St. Omaha, NE 68124 (402) 391-2111 www.kharch.com

PACT Studios 1111 N. 13th St., Suite 303 Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 506-6377 www.pact-studios.com

Holland Basham Architects To find an AIA member, visit aiane.org. 119 S. 49th Ave. RDG Planning & Design

Emergent Architecture

Building on your vision.

1302 Howard Street Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 392-0133 www.rdgusa.com

Schemmer Associates 1044 N. 115th St., Suite 300 Omaha, NE 68154 (402) 493-4800 www.schemmer.com 333 S. 21st St., Suite 102 Lincoln, NE 68510 (402) 488-2500 www.schemmer.com

Wilkins Architecture Design Planning 2204 University Drive Suite 130 Kearney, NE 68845 (308) 237-5787 www.wilkinsadp.com 151 N. 8th St., Suite 340 Lincoln, NE 68508 www.wilkinsadp.com

T4 | SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2026

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2025 EXCELLENCE IN ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARDS

ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD

The Art Chapel

CSC Center of Innovative Learning

The Joslyn Hawks Pavilion Addition

 Firm: Plain D-B + FACT + Actual Architecture Company  Location: Lincoln, NE  Owner: F Street Neighborhood Church  Photographer: Walker Pickering

 Firm: BVH Architecture  Location: Chadron, NE  Owner: Chadron State College  Photographers: AJ Brown / Parrish Ruiz de Velasco

The Art Chapel is a studio for adults to cultivate their creativity through art and craft instruction, supporting public events in a community with few cultural outlets. The 1873 building, Lincoln, Nebraska’s first church, has been transformed from a neglected space into an asset for a struggling neighborhood. The primary design acts are subtractive - removing material and abstracting the building to highlight generic qualities and simple beauty. A large rolling wall replicates the original façade and opens the Art Chapel to the community both literally and figuratively. Inspired by the subtle way members of the community are invited to gather for services informally in the car park and on the church steps, the rolling wall allows the entire building to be an extension of the public realm.

Originally built in the late 1960s, the Chadron State College learning center was densely packed with classrooms, labs, and specialty spaces like a planetarium. With education evolving significantly over the past 50+ years, the interior was completely demolished to support contemporary learning goals and future departmental growth. Inside, the original building was stripped to its structure and rebuilt to support flexible, tech-integrated learning. Open lab layouts and movable partitions allow the structure to frame spaces of varied scale and use. Together, the renovation and addition balance performance, pedagogy, and a forward-looking architectural identity.

 Firm: Alley Poyner Machietto Architecture  Design Architect: Snøhetta  Location: Omaha, NE  Owner: Joslyn Art Museum  Photographer: Nic Lehoux

The Rhonda and Howard Hawks Pavilion addition at the Joslyn Art Museum was constructed to house the Museum’s recently acquired works from the Phillip G. Schrager Collection. Through an assertive yet complementary design response, it provides a contemporary addition bridging the early century Art Deco and late century High Modernist structures present on the campus. A primary goal of the addition, in partnership with an internationally renowned design architect, Snøthetta, and a vast team of partners and stakeholders, was to provide a new iteration of world-renowned architecture to accompany the two existing buildings – each esteemed in unique ways. Designed to Jury Comments: An elegant solution upgrading aging STEM buildings that elevates the existing building rather than contrasting it. The new addi- achieve LEED Silver certification, the interior program includes an expanded atrium, relocated Museum store, new community Jury Comments: The jury was captivated from the start. With its sliding tion’s careful contextual scale and form, complimentary materiality showroom, and ample gallery space. Wayfinding is improved through cases modern science and learning. The jurors appreciate the successful front door and bold, thoughtful use of raw materials, this project transforms increased visibility throughout the building and from the street, housing into a playful, expressive work of art. The rolling door façade as a creative repurpose of the atrium to meet the needs of a new planetarium. reinforcing the connection with the adjacent outdoor sculpture single statement invites the community in, presenting itself as a place you’d like to experience. A clear idea carried out throughout every aspect and evgardens, renovated landscape, and urban context beyond.

ery scale of the project with purpose and a holistic approach to less is more.

Jury Comments: Beautiful old to new. A striking monolithic material composition that derives its purpose through shape, light, and textural change. The stone façade backdrops of the existing building were thoughtfully incorporated with the interior experience.

ARCHITECTURE FIRM OF THE YEAR Recognizes an AIA Nebraska firm in good standing that has shown exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the profession in the areas of design, education, and or service to the State of Nebraska and its communities. RDG Planning & Design has helped define and elevate architecture in Nebraska for more than six decades. With over 130 AIA awards and hundreds of design recognitions, RDG exemplifies design excellence across diverse project types, including healthcare environments, educational facilities, cultural institutions, worship spaces, civic buildings and community planning initiatives.

Their leadership is most visible in transformative contributions to health science education, including landmark projects at UNMC and Creighton University, as well as recent work at UNK on the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex. These projects support professional training for healthcare practitioners serving rural CONT’D PG 6

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Excellence in Architecture

SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2026 |

2025 EXCELLENCE IN ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARDS ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD

Museum of Nebraska Art

 Firm: BVH Architecture  Location: Kearney, NE  Owner: Museum of Nebraska Art  Photographer: Nic Lehoux The Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA) is the state’s cultural anchor and home to Nebraska’s official art collection. Located in downtown Kearney, the museum’s recent transformation expands its civic and exhibition role through a 23,000-squarefoot addition and a new 43,000-square-foot sculpture garden. Originally a 1911 post office, the historic building has been respectfully preserved and reimagined. The expansion introduc-

ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD

CoARCH

 Firm: HDR  Consultant: NADAA  Location: Lincoln, NE  Owner: University of Nebraska-Lincoln, College of Architecture  Photographer: Nic Lehoux As the only 19th-century building on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s city campus, Architecture Hall is an emblem of the university’s Victorian history, with a virtually unchanged exterior that provides faculty, students and visitors with a sense of appreciation for the building’s preserved history. To maintain

es a universally accessible entrance and a central circulation spine connecting old and new. New public spaces, including a naturally lit community studio, museum store, event space, and flexible galleries, support MONA’s mission of education, preservation, and outreach. By integrating community-centered programming with architectural clarity and care, MONA positions itself as an open, inclusive institution rooted in place and built for the future. The project is a testament to how architecture can extend a museum’s reach—connecting people to art, to each other, and to the cultural fabric of Nebraska. Jury Comments: Strong resolution of the exterior and interior detailing stands as a companion to the historic Post Office Building. Great attention to the spirit of place and a balanced attention to both the interior design and exterior context.

the original architecture while expanding to accommodate an increasing student body, HDR partnered with NADAAA to provide UNL’s College of Architecture with the second phase of renovations and a four-story addition, the HDR Pavilion, the campus’ newest space in nearly 40 years. The HDR Pavilion, an entirely mass timber structure, features 14 new studio spaces, a student lounge and an additional crit space on the second, third and fourth floors. Design elements such as exposed wood and long-span timber beams create a flexible and environmentally conscious learning environment, while drafting tables and studio bleachers for crit spaces create a dynamic space. Jury Comments: Beautiful contract of color, form, and tectonics. Clear and simple solution to complex project - multiple existing buildings and levels.

T6 | SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2026

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2025 EXCELLENCE IN INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARDS

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD

Osborne Legacy Complex

Omaha Public Library - Downtown Branch

 Firm: BVH Architecture  Additional Consultant: Populous  Location: Lincoln, NE  Owner: University of Nebraska-Lincoln  Photographer: Matt Kocourek

 Firm: HDR  Consultant: Margaret Sullivan Studios  Location: Omaha, NE  Owner: City of Omaha  Photographer: Dan Schwalm

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD

The Joslyn Memorial Building and Scott Pavilion Renovation

 Firm: Alley Poyner Machietto Architects  Consultant: Snøhetta  Location: Omaha, NE  Owner: Joslyn Art Museum Situated four blocks from its original location at 215 S. 15th  Photographer: Corey Gaffer St, the new home for the Omaha downtown library has a rich The Joslyn Art Museum is a series of iconic structures forming history. Originally designed as a creamery in 1912, the build- a world-renowned museum experience. The Memorial Building, ing thrived for nearly three decades. Following the creamery’s constructed in 1931 and designed in the Art Deco style, is full of closure in 1940, the building transformed into cold storage and tectonic nuance indicative of the time in which it was constructan auto parts supply business before sitting vacant for almost ed. The Joslyn Art Museum is a cultural cornerstone of the Oma30 years. The neglected building required extensive structural ha community. To continue engaging its visitors at the highest work, including replacing 150 timber beams, rebuilding exterior level possible, The Joslyn’s community education and outreach walls and addressing rot in floor and ceiling timbers. Working programs were enhanced and expanded with renovations to with a team of historic preservationists, much of the building the administration suite, studios, reference library, the Abbott was either cleaned and preserved or needed to be replaced Lecture Hall, and Durham Café contained within the original with similar means and methods from its construction in 1912. Memorial Building and Scott Pavilion addition. The renovation Project restoration has helped lead to the revitalization of the sensitively inserts contemporary but subdued design updates surrounding neighborhood and created a vibrant space for peo- into staff offices, conference rooms, staff break room, studios, ple in the community to come and access the library’s services. the lecture hall, and the reference library within the existing, ear-

The Osborne Legacy Complex at the University of Nebraska is more than a building—it’s a symbol of progress, tradition, and Husker pride. Serving as the new front door of Nebraska Football, its bold design includes a striking cantilevered edge with red soffits and a 40-foot seamless glass façade—the largest on campus—offering a powerful, transparent invitation to all. The complex also reflects Nebraska’s agricultural roots, with a terraced “Front Porch” plaza, symbolic crop-row pavers, and memorials to players Brook Berringer and Sam Foltz. For athletes, it’s a transformative space. Cutting-edge training facilities include the world’s first adjustable plyometric ramp, high-performance equipment, and advanced recovery amenities like red-light therapy, float pods, and a cold plunge. Blending innovation with heritage, the Osborne Legacy Complex stands as a tribute to the past and a foundation for future greatness. It’s a living symbol of Nebraska’s values—where history, excellence, Jury Comments: A simple solution that allows the old building to shine. ly century Art Deco architecture of the Memorial Building. These and the Husker spirit converge. Furniture, lighting, and new architectural elements feel at home and part new insertions are intentionally understated and referential to the existing architecture, highlighting the tactile quality of the Jury Comments: This project strikes a careful balance for the Huskers, ap- of a simple sophisticated new composition. proaching collegiate pride in a professional, refined way. The use of bold colnatural materials and ornament of the detailing already present. ors, high contrast, and light integrate the branding into the interior design.

Jury Comments: Interesting use of renovated spaces and complementary approach to the existing architecture. Rethinking and retaining the entrance door as a backdrop to the meeting room is a strategic method of preservation. Each space is a backdrop to a scene in a cinematic story.

FROM PG 4

communities, helping expand access to healthcare across the state. RDG’s pioneering work in early childhood education is equally impactful, exemplified by four Educare facilities in Nebraska — including the first on tribal lands — and ongoing collaborations with the Buffett Early Childhood Institute and rural districts that are helping set new national standards for learning environments. Their work in faithbased architecture, including churches and spiritual centers across the Midwest, reflects a commitment to creating spac-

es that strengthen community, nurture belonging and elevate the human spirit. RDG’s planning leadership extends well beyond buildings, shaping the future of campuses, municipalities and critical infrastructure across Nebraska. From trail systems to transportation planning, the firm helps turn visionary ideas into long-term impact. Equally integral is RDG’s culture of service. As an employ-

ee-owned firm, RDG actively contributes to the state’s civic life, and invests in the next generation of designers through mentorship, education and participation in ACE and NOMA programs. Rooted in the values of purposeful design and civic stewardship, RDG continues to demonstrate that architecture is most powerful when it uplifts people and places, setting a higher standard for design in the public interest.

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Excellence in Architecture

SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2026 |

2025 EXCELLENCE IN UNBUILT ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARDS UNBUILT ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD

Mod_RAD

 Firm: Holland Basham Architects  Location: Omaha, NE  Owner(s): Omaha by Design | AARP Conestoga is one of Omaha’s oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods, known for its deep cultural roots, historic charm, and strong sense of community. Today, it also holds untapped

UNBUILT ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD Ron and Teri Quinn Family Oasis  Firm: HDR  Consultant: The Architectural Offices - Landscape Architecture  Location: Omaha, NE  Owner: Lauritzen Gardens Set within Omaha’s premier botanical garden, The Oasis was designed to bring needed visitor amenities to the isolated

UNBUILT ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD U.S. Army XVIII Airborne Corps Command & Control Headquarters  Firm: HDR  Location: Fort Bragg, NC  Owner: United States This Command & Control Headquarters translates the ethos of the XVIII Airborne Corps—confidence, fearlessness, precision—into an architectural expression. Sited on a 40-foot rise at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the building asserts a commanding presence while integrating with the terrain and regional

UNBUILT ARCHITECTURE HONOR AWARD StarTran Multi-Modal Transportation Center  Firm: HDR  Location: Location: Lincoln, NE  Owner: Lincoln Transportation and Utilities This multi-modal transit center is to be situated adjacent to the center of civic government for the city of Lincoln, NE. It will replace a surface parking lot with an 18-bay bus transit facility, while also providing amenities for bicycle commuters and

potential, with over 650,000 square feet of vacant land ready for thoughtful reinvestment. ModRAD (Modular Rapid Affordable Dwellings) offers a solution designed for families, by families, to restore housing in this historic community. Using modular construction and panelized wood-frame systems, ModRAD delivers high-quality, cost-effective homes tailored to meet the needs of diverse households. Each unit is adaptable, accessible, and designed to evolve over time. Jury Comments: A playful and accessible solution that redefines modular housing. MOD-RAD’s shared-resource approach stood out to the jury as a model for adaptive, community-based design.

back areas of the expansive garden grounds. The building was sited to align as tightly as possible to maximize programmable space while limiting necessary debris removal. The site design, situated above the bale-fill limits, blends interior and exterior programming, with terraced amphitheaters, landscaped retention ponds, and paved plazas for food trucks/events. By providing new refreshment options, restrooms, a multi-purpose space, and other family support, the Oasis will greatly expand the visitor experience for guests at the gardens. Jury Comments: A compact design with thoughtful siting and straightforward construction that transforms a former landfill site—projects like this are exactly what the world needs more of.

ecology. Two symmetrical weathering steel wings flank a luminous glass core—symbolizing strength and transparency. Materiality reflects the airborne legacy—resilient, purposeful, and enduring. Weathering steel acts as architectural armor; its evolving patina will mark the passage of time with dignity. A tree-lined plaza and axial procession emphasize order and discipline. Passive strategies—including solar shading and strategic orientation—enhance performance without compromising the building’s bold stance. This is an architecture shaped by airborne operations: decisive, agile, and unshakably confident. Jury Comments: Its professional exterior is a simple and strong expression. Simple and effective interior detailing stay true to the function of the building, the definition of a paratrooper, through selective use of color, the curved soffit in the atrium and a ceiling selection that sits lightly above.

pedestrians. The building enclosure responds to its immediate context, referencing the simple, monochromatic forms of the adjacent county/city building. Meanwhile, the balance of the project – the site, and bus bays – aim to replace what is today an unrelenting concrete slab with a park-like outdoor environment that is both comfortable and safe for commuters. Geothermal heat exchange is planned to reduce energy use while photovoltaic panels are planned to provide on-site energy generation. The project is on target to become a net-zero building. Jury Comments: Great presentation – rethinking our transit system to a park, play, and community amenity would serve us well.

T8 | SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2026

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2025 EXCELLENCE IN ARCHITECTURAL DETAIL HONOR AWARD ARCHITECTURAL DETAIL HONOR AWARD

Dvorak Law Detail

 Firm: TACKarchitects  Location: Omaha, NE  Owner: David Dvorak  Photographer: Tom Kessler

ARCHITECTURAL DETAIL HONOR AWARD

Sylvan Lake House Windows

Museum of Nebraska Art Ceiling

 Firm: Actual Architecture Company  Location: Sylvan Lake, AB, CA  Owner: Donovan & Joanne Nielsen  Photographer: Bruce Damonte

 Firm: BVH Architecture  Location: Kearney, NE  Owner: Museum of Nebraska Art  Photographer: Nic Lehoux

Inspired by Sigurd Lewerentz’s frameless windows at the Malmö Flower Kiosk (Blomsterkiosk, 1969) where glass panes are recessed flush with the concrete wall and held in place by metal clips, the Architects of the Sylvan Lake House sought to eliminate the visibility of the window frame as a mediating element between wall and glass. The home occupies a narrow, lakefront lot between Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta) windows throughout the house are triple-pane, 4-sided structural silicon-glazed commercial curtain walls.

At the Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA), the ceiling becomes a narrative surface—quietly expressive, deeply rooted in place. Inspired by the Sandhill crane migration across the Nebraska plains, its folded geometry evokes both the flight patterns of these iconic birds and the delicate, abstracted form of an origami crane—a symbol of transformation and grace. This bespoke wood ceiling embraces the material language of the region, referencing the textures, shadows, and layered beauty of the prairie. Subtle articulation within the surface allows light to drift and shift, casting patterns that animate the public spaces Jury Comments: Customizing a standard curtain wall system into the architecture was well executed to provide a high level of performance with a and offer moments of quiet discovery. Shade and shadow are not byproducts, but integral design elements that enhance the minimalist quality of aesthetic. contemplative character of the space. Jury Comments: An elevated use of a simple and economical material that creates a warm and inviting ceiling plane I would like to spend time under.

As the growing legal practice prepared to expand into a second floor of its corporate office, Phase Three of the project focused on unifying both levels through a cohesive architectural intervention. A new internal staircase was introduced as both a physical connector and a visual anchor—located adjacent to the reception area, it immediately orients visitors while reinforcing the firm’s identity as contemporary, accessible, and client-focused. The reimagined reception sequence sets the tone for the office experience, balancing formality with warmth through a refined material palette and strategic lighting. The expansion supports continued growth while strengthening the spatial legibility and flow between public-facing and private zones. Clean detailing, subtle transitions, and sculptural elements work together to create a confident and forward-thinking legal workspace. Jury Comments: A beautiful stair that is elevated by a singular defining element – a mirror to bounce light and reflect geometries. The jurors found it a refreshing simple and effective use of a common material in delightful way. Stairs can be exercise, fun, and beautiful. The intentional placement of guardrail and contrasting handrail separate yet link the adjacent materials nicely. A beautiful stair that is elevated by a singular defining element – a mirror to bounce light and reflect geometries. Stairs can be exercise, fun, and beautiful. The intentional placement of guardrail and contrasting handrail separate yet link the adjacent materials nicely.

2025 DON LITTLER EXCELLENCE IN MASONRY HONOR AWARD MASONRY HONOR AWARD

Boys Town Education Center

 Firm: DLR Group  Location: Boys Town, NE  Owner: Boys Town  Photographer: Michael Robinson

meticulously blended to create a future-ready learning environment while considering that many of these students have been left behind in their previous learning environments. The exterior of the building blends seamlessly into the rest of the campus architecture. The brick façade features unique patterns that pay homage to the other brick features seen throughout the campus.

The new 110,000 SF Boys Town Education Center supports 450 students in grades 4-12. All students served Jury Comments: The masonry pattern converts a masonry by the new education center live on campus, have form into a sculptural element. It’s retro aesthetic provides comexperienced trauma, and many of the students are fort through nostalgia. at risk. The design is inspired by the spirit of campus – celebrating place – with the health and well-being of every student and teacher in mind. Every detail is

Excellence in Architecture

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2025 AIA Nebraska

SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2026 |

Celebrating 60 Years together.

Firm of the Year

rdgusa.com

Heather Hughes, AIA 2025 AIA Nebraska President

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S TO ALL OF THIS YEAR’S WINNERS!

Recognition of Dedication and Leadership

Audrey Cherek, AIAS 2025 AIAS Student Award

Boys Town Education Center

Don Littler Excellence in Masonry Honor Award

dlrgroup.com

Excellence in Architecture

T10 | SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2026

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN | EDUCATION AWARD Recognizes a living person of esteemed character who has rendered distinguished service to the profession of architecture design or to the arts science in a Nebraska institution of higher learning. tecture with distinction from the Bartlett School of Architecture in the UK and has held distinguished appointments, including the Hyde Chair of Excellence and the Hawthorne Distinguished Professorship.

rofessor Jason Griffiths is an Associate Professor in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Architecture and the W. Cecil Steward Professor of Sustainability. He earned his Master of Archi-

A tireless advocate for the advancement of design-build pedagogy, Griffiths provides a transformative, experience-based education for students at UNL. Through his PLAIN Design-Build collective, he integrates research on mass timber with buildings for non-profit organisations in Nebraska. Projects such as Mizer’s Ruin, BLIND, and the Baxa Cabin at Cedar Point Biological Station have enabled students to develop a deep understanding of low-carbon design and socially responsible forestry.

forefront of material innovation and cultural discourse in architecture. His book Manifest Destiny: A Guide to the Essential Indifference of American Suburban Housing challenges conventional paradigms of suburban development, while his ongoing

The Gold Medal commemorates the achievements of Harry Francis Cunningham who came to Nebraska as lead architect for Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue’s office during completion of the tower phase of construction for the State Capitol following Goodhue’s death in 1924. It was Goodhue’s revolutionary building design which won the nationwide competition in 1920 for the creation of the state house in Lincoln. Cunningham subsequently established the first school of architecture at the University of Nebraska- Lincoln. success depends on context-designing buildings appropriate to their cultural, social, political, and environmental settings. Under Doug’s leadership, HDR has won four national Honor Awards, produced three national Young Architect Award recipients, and elevated five architects to Fellowship, all while headquartered in Nebraska.

Inspired Leadership hdrinc.com

Doug Wignall, FAIA, LEED AP President, Architecture

work—supported by grants from the US Forest Service and the Softwood Lumber Board, among others—advances the use of engineered wood products and sustainable building practices in both education and professional practice.

2025 HARRY F. CUNNINGHAM GOLD MEDAL

Beyond the classroom, Griffiths’ research and creative practice place him at the

Congratulations, Doug Wignall, for 35 years of leadership and receiving the AIA Nebraska Harry F. Cunningham Gold Medal, honoring a career defined by vision, integrity and an unwavering commitment to elevating architecture.

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pon earning his Master’s Degree in Architecture from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Doug Wignall, FAIA, made the deliberate choice to remain in Nebraska, turning down opportunities with well-known East Coast firms. His early work on Omaha projects such as the Joslyn Art Museum addition and the Western Heritage Museum renovation (now the Durham Museum) sparked a deep passion for design excellence-one that has guided every stage of his career. In 2012, Doug became President of HDR Architecture, and embarked on redefining what a 21st-century global architecture practice could be. He expanded HDR’s reach by opening offices in New York, Los Angeles, Vancouver, Sydney, and London, ensuring that global expertise would strengthen local studios. At the same time, he emphasized that architectural

Doug has been a strong advocate for elevating design culture locally and nationally. For more than a decade, he has served as a founding patron and sponsor of daOMA (Design Alliance OMAha, Inc.) and supported Unicameral Design Magazine. He also championed HDR’s sponsorship of the U.S. Pavilion at the Venice Biennale in both 2021 and 2023, reinforcing the importance of design on the global stage. Closer to home, he led HDR’s gift to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s College of Architecture, resulting in the new HDR Pavilion addition to the iconic Architecture Hall, a project that underscores the firm’s and Doug’s enduring ties to Nebraska. “Doug’s advocacy of design excellence has guided the firm’s constant transformation, evolving it from a practice focused on technical and planning expertise to a design-driven, 21st-century architecture practice,” said nominator Thomas J. Trenolone, FAIA, LEED AP, NCARB . His strategy of combining organic growth with acquisitions has grown HDR’s non-U.S. business from 11% to nearly 35% of revenues. Under Doug’s leadership, the firm’s practiCONT’D PG 11

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Excellence in Architecture

Tau Sigma Delta, a member of The Gallery and NOMAS, and an active UCARE student researcher under Professor Brian M. Kelly.

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tioners are empowered to challenge conventional practices and innovate across disciplines and geographies. Their diversity-architects, engineers, interior designers, planners, social scientists, clinicians, strategists, researchers, economists and data geeks-speaks to the design culture that Doug has fostered and to his willingness to invest in development, testing and implementation.

Her design work has been recognized nationally and locally. Recent honors include publication in The Gallery’s Spring 2024 Student Work collection, a SARA New York Design Award, finalist recognition in the BWBR Competition, and the 2025 UNL Student Research Days undergraduate award for her project “Biases and Bloopers in Comfy UI.”

Today, he remains an ardent advocate for the power of design, a champion of the idea that architects bring value to the world by applying critical thinking and problem-solving to address pressing social, environmental and economic challenges.

YOUNG ARCHITECT AWARD Recognizes an AIA Nebraska member, licensed less than 10 years who has shown exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the profession in the areas of design, education, and or service in an early stage of their architectural career. to Hong Kong, where he spent eight years immersed in the city’s cultural dynamism and density. There, he engaged in international competitions, exhibitions, and became one of the first architects to complete the NCARB exams in Asia. His experiences abroad sharpened his belief in cross-disciplinary collaboration, cultural responsiveness, and global exchange as drivers of innovation.

im Williams, AIA, grew up in Omaha, where skateboarding first introduced him to the built environment as a landscape of experimentation and iteration. That early curiosity about space and cities led him to the University of Kansas, where he earned his Master of Architecture and developed a collaborative ethos through both studio and leadership roles. After graduation, Tim worked with Ateliers Jean Nouvel in Paris before moving

Returning to the U.S., Tim contributed to large-scale projects at Pelli Clarke Pelli in New York before joining HDR in Omaha in 2019. As Design Principal, he has led major civic and cultural projects, including the Kiewit Luminarium and the new Omaha Central Library, while fostering a studio culture of curiosity, openness, and continuous learning. Outside of practice, he continues to explore design through woodworking and home projects with his wife, also an architect, and their sons. At the core of his work is a belief that meaningful environments emerge from curiosity, listening, and a willingness to rethink the expected.

AIAS STUDENT AWARD This award recognizes a member of the American Institute of Architects Students (AIAS), one undergraduate and graduate, who have shown exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to their academic community at the University of Nebraska College of Architecture.

udrey Cherek is a fourth-year architecture student at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Design with a minor in Business Administration. Driven by a passion for design and

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leadership, she is deeply engaged in both the College of Architecture and the broader campus community. Within the College, Audrey serves as a Peer Mentor, Ambassador, and Student Blogger, as well as President of the UNL chapter of the American Institute of Architecture Students. She is also Treasurer of

Beyond the studio, Audrey represents the College of Architecture as a Senator in the Association of Students of the University of Nebraska, contributes to AIAS’s National Ethics Committee, and plays cello in the Campus Orchestra and Cello Choir. She also gained professional experience as a design intern at DLR Group in Omaha. In addition to her academic and professional pursuits, Audrey enjoys watercolor painting, casting, yoga, and cooking.

Making an Impact hdrinc.com

We’re proud to celebrate Tim Williams for receiving the AIA Nebraska Young Architect award for his 15-year career of shaping spaces through curiosity and global insight. Tim Williams, AIA Design Principal

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Design with Purpose We are a collaborative, multidisciplinary firm that leverages our passions and skills to help create great communities, environments and buildings that unite people and elevate the human spirit. hdrinc.com

Celebrating Our 2025 AIA Nebraska Excellence in Design Award Recipients

2 Excellence in Interior Architecture Honor Award: Omaha Public Library – Downtown Branch

1 Excellence in Architecture Honor Award: CoArch (HDR Pavilion), in partnership with NADAAA

3 Excellence in Unbuilt Architecture Honor Award: Ron and Teri Quinn Family Oasis

4 Excellence in Unbuilt Architecture Honor Award: U.S. Army XVIII Airborne Corps Command & Control Headquarters 5 Excellence in Unbuilt Architecture Honor Award: StarTran Multi-Modal Transportation Center