Contributed by Architectural Exhibit Co-Chair Stephen
Murakami, Hutteball & Oremus
Architecture
The jury was tasked with the challenge of sifting through a wide array of projects with varying programs, budgets, and constraints. In the end, their lively discussions resulted in the selection of the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center, designed by HKP Architects for the North Cascades Institute, Seattle City Lights, and the National Parks Service, as the 2008 Polished Apple Award Winner. The Design Team included: SvR Design (Civil), Richard Haag & Associates (Landscape Architect), Marten/Chan (Structural), Berona Engineers (Mechanical), and Path Engineers/Travis Fitzmaurice & Associates/Radiance Lighting Design (Electrical).
The jurors noted that the Center is a wonderful example of architecture that is fully integrated with the learning environment. The collection of individual structures is set upon the footprint of their predecessors, demonstrating a respect for the North Cascades ecosystem through their articulation and construction. The jury added that while this project did not have to respond to the challenges in the development of a comprehensive school, it utilized that advantage to model the ideals of sustainability, flexibility, and aesthetics.
New to the juried competition, and brought back by demand, was the People’s Choice Award. Conference attendees were each given a ballot, and with an overwhelming majority, the jury’s final selection was reinforced by the popular vote when the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center was announced as the winner at the awards luncheon on Saturday.
In addition to the Polished Apple Award, the jury recognized three additional projects with Merit Awards.
The restoration of Lincoln High School, designed by DLR Group for Tacoma Public Schools, was commended for overcoming a difficult program and creating a comprehensive High School with autonomous academies. Consulting engineers included: Karen Kiest (Landscape Architect), DLR Group with Hargis Engineers (Mechanical), DLR group with Coffman Engineers (Electrical), TCF Architects (Architectural Consultant), and Gene Grulich Architecture & Planning Services (Historical Restoration Consultant).
The “on the boards” design for the new Marysville-Getchell High School, designed by the DLR Group for the Marysville School District, was cited for its adaptation of truly independent learning communities, and the integration of structural design strategies to adapt to and foster future flexibility. Consulting engineers included: SCE, Inc (Civil), Cascade Design Collaborative (Landscape Architect), DLR Group (Structural & Mechanical), DLR Group with Coffman Engineers (Electrical), Architects of Achievement (Educational Planning), and Brainspaces (Educational Specifications).
Forest View Elementary School, designed by Dykeman for Everett Public Schools, was recognized for its successful site design. The jury noted that the building and site have been skillfully integrated with a thoughtful response to the onsite stream. The project uses the sloping site to advantageously position the larger masses of the building on the lower slope, providing a scale at the main entry in harmony with the surrounding neighborhoods. Consulting engineers included: Dowl Engineers (Civil), Cascade Design Collaborative (Landscape Architect), KPFF Consulting Engineers (Structural), Hargis Engineers (Mechanical/Electrical).
On behalf of my fellow Architectural Exhibit Co-Chair, Greg Hepp of Bassetti Architects, I would like to personally thank all of the firms participating in the Exhibit this year. I would also like to thank the Architectural Exhibit Committee for their tireless efforts and numerous contributions: Shannon McLaughlin, Hargis Engineers; Jan Flesher, CPL; Trevor Lunde, Integrus Architecture; and Terri McRae, ALSC Architects.
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