

2773 N HAMPDEN CT
SGW ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN
BARBARA VICK WESTERN BRANCH
BAILEY EDWARD DESIGN, INC.
HIGHLAND PARK MODERN
NICHOLAS DESIGN COLLABORATIVE
LARCHMONT SCHOOLS AT LAFAYETTE PARK DSH// ARCHITECTURE
MADISON + CARPENTER
SGW ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN
NANCY FRANCO MALDONADO PASEO BORICUA ARTS BUILDING URBANWORKS, LTD.
OSF MINISTRY HEADQUARTERS DEWBERRY
PEREGRINE
URBAN WORKS ARCHITECTURE
POINTER PERCH
HAVER & SKOLNICK ARCHITECTS
RANDOLPH OFFICE CENTER
HIRSCH MPG LLC
SUNFISH LAKE CONTEMPORARY PLAAD, LLC
THEROW FULTON MARKET
STANTEC ARCHITECTURE INC
WAYZATA BAY OFFICE
PKA ARCHITECTURE
ANN RAINEY SENIOR APARTMENTS URBANWORKS, LTD.
BAR NICO ASK STUDIO
CONFIDENTIAL TECHNOLOGY CLIENT EVENT SPACE STANTEC ARCHITECTURE INC
DESERT COMFORT RESIDENCE PKA ARCHITECTURE
ESPERANZA BRIGHTON PARK HEALTH CENTER URBANWORKS, LTD.
OLD REPUBLIC BUILDING - EXTERIOR RESTORATION NEW WORLD DESIGN LTD.
OLYMPIA SOUTH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - GYMNASIUM AND FLEXIBLE LEARNING CENTER DEWBERRY
THE ACADEMY FOR GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP AT THE CULTIVATE COLLECTIVE CAMPUS SMNG A LTD.
TURKU MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND THE FUTURE STANTEC ARCHITECTURE INC
VIRGIN HOTELS NEW YORK STANTEC ARCHITECTURE INC
WILLARDS - HOPKINS HISTORIC REHABILITATION
ASK STUDIO
MANHATTAN POINT CABIN
PKA ARCHITECTURE
FIRST PLACE
FELIPE CAJIGAS - JMA ARCHITECTS
LICENSED ARCHITECT AWARDS
BRIAN VARANO - SILVER PETRUCELLI & ASSOCIATES
MICHAEL HENNING - PAPPAGEORGE HAYMES PARTNERS
JOEL BERMAN - BERMAN ARCHITECTURE
NON-PROFESSIONAL AWARDS
JAN CONCEPCION - HUSARCHITECTURE
MARICARMEN MCLEAN PIZANO
STUDENT AWARDS
SASHA LAPAGE - ILLINOIS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
GRACE GLOTZBACH - TULANE UNIVERSITY
MENG-CHE TSAI - UIUC
Yoko A. Yarita ROKK Architecture
Vladimir Radutny Vladimir Radutny Architects / IIT
Jason Korb Korb + Associates
Jason Nuttelman SEEK Design + Architecture
Jason DeVries INVISION Architecture
THE ALA DESIGN AWARDS WERE EVALUATED BY AN EXCEPTIONAL PANEL OF JUDGES WHO BRING DIVERSE EXPERTISE, CREATIVITY, AND A DEEP UNDERSTANDING OF ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN. EACH PROJECT IS CAREFULLY REVIEWED BASED ON INNOVATION, FUNCTIONALITY, SUSTAINABILITY, AND OVERALL IMPACT.
OUR JUDGES INCLUDE ACCOMPLISHED ARCHITECTS, EDUCATORS, AND INDUSTRY LEADERS WHO ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT ADVANCING THE ARCHITECTURAL PROFESSION THEIR THOUGHTFUL CRITIQUE AND PROFESSIONAL INSIGHTS ENSURE THAT THE ALA DESIGN AWARDS UPHOLD THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF EXCELLENCE
Project Spotlight: 2773 N Hampden Ct
Location: Chicago, IL
Architecture Firm: SGW Architecture & Design, Chicago, IL
Contractor: MC Construction Group
Owner: ZSD Corp
Project Overview:
Nestled in the vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, 2773 N Hampden Ct stands as a testament to thoughtful urban infill design. Replacing a failed grocery store, this luxury 30-unit condominium seamlessly complements its adjacent sister project at 2753 N Hampden Unit sizes range from 1,948 to 2,481 sq. ft., with the 6th-floor residences featuring duplex layouts and spacious rooftop terraces. The ground floor boasts parking for 36 vehicles and a 3,474 sq ft retail space, enhancing the building’s functionality and neighborhood connectivity
Project Spotlight: Barbara Vick Western Branch
Location: Chicago, IL
Category: Adaptive Reuse
Architecture Firm: Bailey Edward Design, Inc , Chicago, IL
Contractor: Friedler Construction
Owner: Chicago Public Schools
Project Overview:
Barbara Vick Western Branch exemplifies the transformative power of adaptive reuse. By converting a former commercial bank into a vibrant early education center, Chicago Public Schools meets the growing demand for preschool spaces in the Beverly neighborhood
The design retains the building’s glass atrium, which fills the interior with natural light, while bold, energetic colors and warm wood tones create inviting, child-friendly spaces.
Administrative offices and generously sized classrooms foster collaboration and creativity.
Project Spotlight: Highland Park Modern
Location: Highland Park, IL
Category: Residential
Architecture Firm: Nicholas Design
Collaborative, Chicago, IL
Contractor: Kelly Smith Construction
Owner: Domain 3 LLC
Project Overview:
Highland Park Modern redefines suburban living with its contemporary four-unit enclave, thoughtfully designed to balance privacy and community Each attached single-family unit is centered around a private courtyard, offering seamless indoor/outdoor living and an inviting sense of tranquility. The project delivers a barrier-free, suburban/urban solution, ensuring accessibility for all ages and mobility levels without compromising style or sophistication.
Project Spotlight: Larchmont Schools at Lafayette Park
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Category: Educational
Architecture Firm: DSH // architecture, Los Angeles, CA
Contractor: Philmont Management, Inc
Owner: Larchmont Schools, Inc.
Project Overview:
The iconic mid-century structure originally designed by Welton Becket & Associates for New York Life Insurance has been transformed into an urban vertical campus, accommodating 500 middle and high school students This once-neglected architectural gem has been reimagined with a "progressive conservation" design philosophy, preserving its mid-century essence while integrating 21st-century sustainability and educational innovations
Project Spotlight: Madison + Carpenter
Location: Chicago, IL
Category: Mixed-Use
Architecture Firm: SGW Architecture & Design, Chicago, IL
Contractor: ZSD Corp
Owner: ZSD Corp
Project Overview:
Madison + Carpenter stands as a sophisticated addition to Chicago’s vibrant West Loop neighborhood. This 13-unit luxury condominium building combines urban elegance with practicality, featuring unit sizes ranging from 2,385 to 3,985 square feet Each residence is complemented by expansive private terraces, offering outdoor living spaces rarely seen in city developments
Project Spotlight: Nancy Franco Maldonado Paseo Boricua Arts Building
Location: Chicago, IL
Category: Mixed-Use
Architecture Firm: UrbanWorks, Ltd., Chicago, IL
Contractor: DRIVE Construction
Owner: Brinshore Development and the Puerto Rican Cultural Center of Chicago
Project Overview:
The Nancy Franco Maldonado Paseo Boricua Arts Building is a cornerstone for community and culture in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood. This new five-story mixed-use development houses 24 affordable apartments tailored to support artists, blending live/work functionality seamlessly.
Project Spotlight: OSF Ministry Headquarters
Location: Peoria, IL
Category: Mixed-Use
Architecture Firm: Dewberry, Peoria, IL
Contractor: PointCore
Owner: 124 SW Adams Property Holdings, LLC
Project Overview:
The OSF Ministry Headquarters stands as a model of historic preservation and adaptive reuse. Through a meticulous restoration process adhering to National Parks Service standards, this former retail campus has been transformed into a vibrant, collaborative office environment
Spanning seven floors and three sublevels, the project integrates open office layouts, conferencing areas, individual focus rooms, and a dynamic mix of café and restaurant spaces. This project not only revitalizes the structure but also injects new energy into Peoria’s downtown core.
Project Spotlight: Peregrine
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Architecture Firm: UrbanWorks Architecture, Minneapolis, MN
Contractor: Greiner Construction
Owner: Schafer Richardson
Project Overview:
Peregrine sets a new standard for sustainable, high-quality affordable housing along the iconic Mississippi Riverfront. This 163-unit development, offering layouts ranging up to four bedrooms, features exceptional views of the Minneapolis skyline and surrounding natural beauty Designed to foster community, Peregrine includes residential amenities for all ages and introduces ground-level retail space, enhancing the public realm at a bustling intersection.
Project Spotlight: Pointer Perch
Location: Fishers Island, NY
Architecture Firm: Haver & Skolnick
Architects, Roxbury, CT
Contractor: H.P. Broom - Housewright, Inc.
Project Overview:
“Pointer Perch” was designed with simplicity and purpose a home that meets the needs of a couple and their dog, and nothing more. The striking form of the house was driven by a goal to climb as high as possible to capture breathtaking panoramic ocean views Living spaces are strategically perched at the top of the tower, providing a serene escape amidst stunning natural surroundings. Influenced by the eclectic shingled cottages of the island, the architectural style balances tradition with a bold, contemporary edge
Patsy McEnroe Photography
Patsy McEnroe Photography
Patsy McEnroe Photography
Project Spotlight: Randolph Office Center
Location: Chicago, IL
Architecture Firm: Hirsch MPG LLC, Chicago, IL
Contractor: Maris Construction
Owner: Beacon Funding
Project Overview:
The Randolph Office Center brings a bold yet harmonious addition to Chicago’s Fulton Market Historic District. Rising 8 stories with a penthouse, this contemporary concrete loft office building is strategically placed on a narrow 40' x 156' vacant site, directly adjacent to an existing 6-story timber loft structure.
This modern interpretation of traditional masonry loft architecture pays homage to the neighborhood’s rich industrial history.
Project Spotlight: Sunfish Lake Contemporary
Location: Sunfish Lake, MN
Architecture Firm: PLAAD, LLC, Minneapolis, MN
Contractor: Adore Bespoke Homes
Project Overview:
Sunfish Lake Contemporary redefines the harmony between nature and modern living. Thoughtfully positioned on a threshold between open prairie and dense woods, the design balances simplicity and sophistication through a curated single-level entry
The home invites its occupants to exist within the boundary, celebrating both landscapes equally Serendipitous and intentional views guide movement throughout the interior, connecting the living space to the surrounding environment.
Project Spotlight: The Row Fulton Market
Location: Chicago, IL
Architecture Firm: Stantec Architecture Inc., Chicago, IL
Contractor: LR Contracting / BOWA
Construction
Owner: Related Midwest
Project Overview:
The Row Fulton Market stands as a striking 43story luxury multifamily skyscraper in the heart of Chicago's historic Fulton Market neighborhood. Designed to seamlessly integrate with the area's industrial heritage, the building’s dark metal façade pays homage to its surroundings while offering a sophisticated, modern aesthetic.
The 550,000-square-foot structure includes 300 residential units with 20% designated as affordable housing.
Project Spotlight: Wayzata Bay Office
Location: Wayzata, MN
Architecture Firm: PKA Architecture, Minneapolis, MN
Contractor: Terra Construction
Project Overview:
Nestled in the heart of Wayzata’s historic lake community, the Wayzata Bay Office harmoniously blends modern mixed-use functionality with the charm of civic architecture. The design carefully reflects the scale of its neighboring buildings while drawing inspiration from iconic structures like libraries and banks that have long defined small-town character.
With an emphasis on pedestrian engagement and enhancing downtown walkability, this impeccably crafted building introduces vibrancy to the neighborhood
Project Spotlight: Ann Rainey Senior Apartments
Location: Evanston, IL
Architecture Firm: UrbanWorks, Ltd., Chicago, IL
Contractor: Evergreen Construction Company
Owner: Evergreen Real Estate Group and the Council for Jewish Elderly
Project Overview:
The Ann Rainey Senior Apartments beautifully balance affordability, functionality, and community. Designed as a vibrant, four-story senior living facility, the project integrates affordable housing with essential support services, reinforcing the mission “to enhance quality of life and facilitate independence of older adults.”
Through smart design and community-driven intent, the project delivers an enriching living experience for older adults while fostering independence and connection
Project Spotlight: Bar Nico
Location: Des Moines, IA
Architecture Firm: ASK Studio, Des Moines, IA
Contractor: Jason Simon and friends
Owner: Jason Simon
Project Overview:
Bar Nico tells a story through its architecture – a tale woven from culinary tradition, music, and a personal heirloom. With a Mexicaninspired menu as its heart, the design celebrates a harmony between culture, craftsmanship, and nostalgia Vinyl-spun melodies complement the space’s ambiance, while a family heirloom a symbolic wolf serves as an evocative muse throughout the design
Project Spotlight: Confidential Technology
Client Event Space
Location: Chicago, IL
Architecture Firm: Stantec Architecture Inc, Chicago, IL
Contractor: Skender Construction Company
Project Overview:
Designed to enhance flexibility and collaboration, this dynamic event space transforms an existing headquarters into a nationally recognized venue for assemblies, lectures, and company gatherings. Inspired by Chicago’s iconic parks and boulevards, the design blends function and inspiration seamlessly.
A standout feature includes an Instagramworthy photo-op that welcomes visitors with a vibrant nod to Chicago’s unique energy and charm
Project Spotlight: Desert Comfort Residence
Location: Cave Creek, AZ
Architecture Firm: PKA Architecture, Minneapolis, MN
Contractor: A Finer Touch
Project Overview:
Nestled in the rugged beauty of Cave Creek, Arizona, this modern residence creates a profound connection to its desert surroundings while respecting and preserving the delicate ecosystem. Designed in close collaboration with a leading Building Science expert, the home balances contemporary aesthetics with sustainability, seamlessly blending into the landscape. With a focus on best practices in construction and environmental stewardship, Desert Comfort Residence stands as a model for sustainable living, celebrating the harmony between built and natural environments
Project Spotlight: Esperanza Brighton Park Health Center
Location: Chicago, IL
Architecture Firm: UrbanWorks, Ltd , Chicago, IL
Contractor: Mortenson Construction
Owner: Esperanza Health Centers
Project Overview:
The Esperanza Brighton Park Health Center is a dynamic two-story, 43,450-square-foot facility dedicated to delivering expanded healthcare and community services to Chicago’s Brighton Park neighborhood. Designed with purpose and community impact in mind.
Situated on Chicago's South Side, the facility completes an entire city block, creating a vibrant civic plaza that connects with Esperanza’s earlier building on the north end of the site. This design transforms the urban fabric into a hub of health, care, and community empowerment.
Project Spotlight: Old Republic BuildingExterior Restoration
Location: Chicago, IL
Architecture Firm: New World Design Ltd., Chicago, IL
Contractor: Central Building & Preservation
L.P.
Owner: Old Republic International Corp.
Project Overview:
The Old Republic Building, a 23-story Chicago Landmark built in 1925, underwent a comprehensive and meticulously planned exterior restoration. Over decades, façade deterioration, structural movement, and ineffective repairs had taken their toll, necessitating a multi-faceted restoration effort.
26,000 pieces of terra cotta were repaired or replaced to preserve the building's original architectural character
Project Spotlight: Olympia South Elementary School - Gymnasium and Flexible Learning Center
Location: Atlanta, IL
Architecture Firm: Dewberry, Peoria, IL
Contractor: Johnco Construction, Inc.
Owner: Olympia CUSD #16
Project Overview:
This innovative project combines a new gymnasium addition with the adaptive reuse of the former gymnasium space, creating a technology-rich learning center and a dualpurpose musical arts performance area. By integrating flexible classrooms and interstitial learning nodes.
Lighting Optimization: The interplay of natural and artificial lighting enhances building performance while fostering physical and emotional well-being for students
Thomas J. Rossiter
Project Spotlight: The Academy for Global Citizenship at the Cultivate Collective Campus
Location: Chicago, IL
Architecture Firm: SMNG A Ltd., Chicago, IL
Contractor: Power Construction
Owner: Cultivate Collective
Project Overview:
Anchoring the transformative Cultivate Collective Campus, the Academy for Global Citizenship (AGC) is a beacon of innovation in education, sustainability, and community development Built on the former site of LeClaire Courts, the 71,000 sq. ft. facility reimagines the role of schools as community hubs.
AGC is the Midwest’s first Phius-certified school and is pursuing full certification under the Living Building Challenge
Project Spotlight: Turku Museum of History and the Future
Location: Turku, Finland
Architecture Firm: Stantec Architecture Inc , Chicago, IL
Project Overview:
The Turku Museum of History and the Future creates a bridge between the city’s rich heritage and its progressive vision for the future. Designed to foster deep connections between people, place, and history, the museum blends innovation, sustainability, and reverence for Turku’s historic castle and Arts District
Visitors enjoy sweeping views of the castle and surrounding environment, creating a seamless connection between indoor exhibitions and the natural landscape.
Project Spotlight: Virgin Hotels New York
Location: New York, NY
Architecture Firm: Stantec Architecture Inc., Chicago, IL
Contractor: Flintlock Construction Services, LLC
Owner: The Lam Group
Project Overview:
Situated in the heart of New York City’s NoMad neighborhood, Virgin Hotels New York is a vibrant yet sophisticated addition to the brand's celebrated collection The 41-story tower redefines luxury hospitality with its thoughtful integration of entertainment, relaxation, and city living.
With its iconic location at 1227 Broadway, Virgin Hotels New York brings a fresh energy to NoMad, creating a dynamic hub where visitors and locals alike can gather.
Project Spotlight: Willards - Hopkins Historic Rehabilitation
Location: Marshalltown, IA
Architecture Firm: ASK Studio, Des Moines, IA
Contractor: Cutler Construction, LLC
Owner: Janelle and Joseph Carter (MHS Properties LLC)
Project Overview:
The Willards - Hopkins Historic Rehabilitation celebrates the preservation of two historic structures that have been integral to the smalltown fabric of Marshalltown for over 150 years. This thoughtful restoration project breathes new life into a beloved landmark, marrying modern usability with historical integrity. The project successfully maintained the building's timeless aesthetic, with careful attention to preserving features like the original floors and textures
Project Spotlight: Manhattan Point Cabin
Location: Spirit Lake, IA
Architecture Firm: PKA Architecture, Minneapolis, MN
Contractor: Hoien Construction
Project Overview:
Located on a prized waterfront lot, the Manhattan Point Cabin was designed as a modern retreat for a client deeply rooted in the Midwestern lake community. The architecture strikes a balance between contemporary aesthetics and the serene beauty of its natural surroundings.
The design features a series of simple pavilions that harmonize with the narrow site while maximizing breathtaking lake views
Large expanses of glass seamlessly integrate the indoor and outdoor spaces, filling the interior with natural light and connecting the home to its environment
Travel Sketches: Celebrating the Beauty and Inspiration of Travel
The ALA is proud to present the winners of the 2024 Napkin Sketch Contest, where creativity meets inspiration through the simplicity of a 5-inch by 5-inch canvas. This year’s theme, Travel Sketches, invited participants to capture the beauty and wonder of travel, whether close to home or across the globe, through their artistic lens
Categories & Awards
Overall First Place Winner
Category Awards
Licensed Architect
Non-Professional Student
Our esteemed panel of judges brought a wealth of expertise and passion for design to this year’s contest. Their discerning eye for creativity, originality, and technical excellence helped us highlight the outstanding works displayed here.
Jenny Jing Zhang
Artist, Architectural
Designer, Urban Sketcher
Jing Sketchbook
Martin Majkrak Adjunct Professor, Freelance Architect
Steven J. Suski AIA, LEED AP, NCARB, President and Founder Suski Design
Felipe Cajigas JMA Architects
Licensed Architects - Runner Ups
Brian Varano Silver Petrucelli & Associates
Joel Berman Berman Architecture
Meng-Che Tsai UIUC