City Beautification Board2013 Awards Gainesville, Florida
Outstanding Commercial Award: Ashton Lane Apartments
Uniquely Gainesville Award: Southwest 13th Street Overpass
April 24, 2013
Outstanding Institutional Award: UF & Shands Family Medicine at Main
Uniquely Gainesville Award: Southwest 13th Street Overpass
CITY BEAUTIFICATION BOARD 2013 AWARDS
The Thomas Center Spanish Court and Long Gallery
302 Northeast 6th Avenue Gainesville, Florida April 24, 2013
Commission of the City of Gainesville Craig Lowe, Mayor Susan Bottcher Todd Chase Thomas Hawkins Lauren Poe Yvonne Hinson-Rawls Randy Wells
City of Gainesville Russ Blackburn, City Manager Fredrick Murry, Assistant City Manager Paul Folkers, Assistant City Manager Steven Phillips, Director, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Michelle Park, Assistant Director, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Linda Demetropoulos, Nature and Cultural Manager Mark Siburt, City Arborist Earline Luhrman, CBB Liaison & Urban Forestry Inspector Ella Bernhardt-Brooks, Staff Assistant Brenda Lugano, Student Intern
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City Beautification Board Anita Spring, Chair
Jeffrey Knee
Becky Howard, Vice Chair
Keytwanna Mitchell
Alicia Antone
Monica Petrella
Joshua Elam
Nina Ring
Bryan Griffin
Leslie Roseman
Jason Gonos
Chuck Woods
Jorge Ibanez
2013 Awards Co-Chairs: Chuck Woods & Becky Howard
City Beautification Board Projects EVENTS
WORKSHOPS
Florida Arbor Day
Median and Roundabout Workshop
Beautification Awards
Urban Forestry Workshop
DESIGN GUIDELINES Comprehensive Civic Design Program Gateway Corridor Study Roadway Lighting Standards Median Guidelines Study
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City Beautification Board PARKS & PLANTINGS 2013 – City of Gainesville / Alachua County Senior Recreation Center (58 trees) 2012 – Thomas Center, University Avenue & Evergreen Cemetery (56 trees) 2011 – Ironwood Golf Course (54 trees) 2010 – Kirby Smith Center & City Hall (52 trees) 2009 – 25th year of Gainesville as Tree City, USA (six plantings for a total of 61 trees) ANNE Park (13 trees); Gainesville Technology Enterprise Center (GTEC) (25 trees); Girl Scout Park (Kiwanis Park) (10 trees); Matheson Center (1 Liberty American elm); SE 7th Street (10 trees); Thomas Center (2 trees)
2008 – Green Tree Park: Kiwanis Challenge Playground (48 trees) 2007 – Evergreen Cemetery (46 trees) 2006 – Roper Park, Thomas Center, Sweetwater Creek (44 trees) 2005 – Westside Park (42 trees) 2004 – Eastside Recreation Center at Cone Park (40 trees) 2003 – Cedar Grove Park (38 trees) 2002 – Westside Park (36 trees) 2001 – Sun Center Elms (downtown, 8 trees) 2000 – Waldo Road Beautification Grant (206 trees) 1999 – Northwest 13th Street Streetscape (live oaks in tree wells) 1998 – West University “Oaks on the Avenue” (6th - 12th streets, 20 trees) 1997 – “Anti-Arbor Day” to remove invasive tallow trees 1996 – East University “Oaks on the Avenue” (3rd - 9th streets, 20 trees) 1995 – East University “Oaks on the Avenue” (9th Street - Waldo Road, 20 trees) 1984 to 1994 – Downtown Plaza Ceremonies
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THE AWARDS The annual City Beautification Awards recognize excellence in a variety of design categories. The awards highlight projects of outstanding aesthetic and artistic appeal. Projects are evaluated for originality, innovation and creativity, as well as for their sustainability, maintenance and use of serviceable materials. The site must exhibit appropriate land utilization, effective planning, compatibility with the area and screening of unsightly views. All projects must meet applicable building and landscaping codes.
Each must result in the improvement of the area, property or neighborhood. Award-winning projects reflect the commitment of many individuals to excellence in design. Owners, managers, architects, landscape architects, engineers, designers and others have contributed to these prize winning projects. The City Beautification Board salutes those who have made a significant contribution to our community through each outstanding project.
THE PROGRAM Convocation: Earline Luhrman, Urban Forestry Inspector Welcome: Anita Spring, City Beautification Board Chair Presentation of the Plaques: Michelle Park, Assistant Director of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Presentation of Awards by City Beautification Board Members: Outstanding Individual and Group Awards: Alicia Anton Institutional Facilities: Chuck Woods Commercial & Retail Businesses: Leslie Roseman Apartments: Joshua Elam Restoration, Revitalization & Adaptive Reuse: Monica Petrella Facade Improvements: Keytwanna Mitchell Uniquely Gainesville: Jeffrey Knee Outstanding Commercial Awards: Bryan Griffin Outstanding Institutional Awards: Anita Spring
Closing Remarks: Anita Spring
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OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUAL AWARD The Honorable Paula Maddox McGehee DeLaney Former Gainesville Mayor and Alachua County Commissioner Paula M. DeLaney concluded 17 years of service as an elected official in our community in November 2012. In 1992, she was first elected to the Gainesville City Commission where she served two terms as an at-large commissioner, including a year as mayorcommissioner pro-tem and one year as mayor-commissioner. She was elected mayor in 1998, the first to be directly elected since the 1920’s. She was elected to the Alachua County Commission in 2004 and 2008 with nearly 58 percent of the vote. As a city and county official, Paula served on numerous boards and committees, including: The Alachua County Library District Governing Board, member and chair; The Alachua County Tourist Development Council, member and chair; The Gainesville Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organization (MTPO), member and chair; The Alachua County Transportation Disadvantaged Coordinating Board, chair; The North Central Florida Regional Planning Council, member; The statewide Metropolitan Planning Organization Advisory Council (MPOAC), member and vice chair. As a city official, she served eight years on the Florida League of Cities Board of Directors and as the Gainesville representative to the Alachua County League of Cities. She served on four statewide committees representing local governments: The Transportation and Land Use Study Commission 1998, The FDOT 2020 Florida Transportation Plan Update 1999, The
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Governor’s Growth Management Study Commission 2000, and The Mobility Fee Methodology StudyStakeholders Working Group 2009 Paula has lived most of her life in Alachua County where her maternal family has lived since the turn of the last century. Her family’s 107-year-old business, Maddox Foundry & Machine Works, Inc., is located in Archer, Florida. Paula is married to Bruce D. DeLaney, assistant vice president of real estate for the University of Florida Foundation. They have three grown children. Paula attended P.K. Yonge Laboratory School, Emory University and the University of Florida where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Education. She has been an active volunteer over the years with numerous community organizations in Gainesville and Alachua County. She is an honorary member of Florida Blue Key in recognition of her leadership and advocacy of “Later Gator,” the successful afterhours bus service implemented in 1998 through a partnership between UF, the City of Gainesville and Regional Transit System (RTS). She was the first recipient of the C. Arthur Sandeen Improving Quality of Life Memorial Award in 1999, created in honor of Dr. Sandeen upon his retirement as UF vice president for student affairs. She received the Gainesville City Beautification Board Harling Award in 2002. Paula has often stated, “Serving in local government has truly been the most exciting and educational experience of my life, and I am very proud to have had this opportunity.”
OUTSTANDING GROUP AWARD Gainesville Garden Club 1350 Northwest 75th Street Founded in September 1924 and admitted to the State Federation of Garden Clubs in May 1927, the Gainesville Garden Club now has more than 250 members involved in a wide range of projects and programs to improve the urban environment and quality of life for residents. Community outreach is one of the garden club’s primary goals. The club has adopted a two-mile section of Southwest 13th Street -- identified by a Gainesville Garden Club sign -- and conducts four cleanups during the year. Other examples of these community-wide efforts include planting caladium bulbs at Wilmot Gardens as well as initiating student gardening projects at Lake Forest Elementary School and Sidney Lanier Elementary School. In recent years, the Gainesville Garden Club also initiated a “garden therapy” program at the Veteran’s Honor Center, installed a Christmas tree and other holiday decorations at the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge, created new flower beds at the Emeritus senior living facility, and presented a flower show at The Village retirement community attended by hundreds of residents and garden club members.
garden at High Springs Community School, the Bread of the Mighty Food Bank and the horticulture program at the Loften Center. Continued support is also extended to the Ronald McDonald House and Habitat for Humanity. The club paid registration fees for three youngsters to attend Camp Wekiva near Orlando. In addition, the Gainesville Garden Club sponsors a children’s area at the annual Spring Garden Festival at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens that benefits hundreds of children. “The Gainesville Garden Club holds monthly meetings where members can learn new and improved gardening techniques,” said Florence Cline, president of the organization. “The meetings include discussions on landscaping as well as plant propagation, container gardening, raised-bed gardening, Florida wildflowers and developing gardens that attract butterflies. We are delighted to offer these exciting programs in gardening and horticultural education to our members and all who would like to join us. We have day and evening circles available,” she said. For more information, visit the Gainesville Garden Club website: www.ggcfl.org
The Gainesville Garden Club also provides financial support to worthy projects such as a butterfly
INSTITUTIONAL FACILITIES The Doris Bardon Community Cultural Center 716 North Main Street, Gainesville A popular and well known Gainesville community leader for many decades, Doris Bardon was also a strong advocate for the arts. Her commitment and dedication to the arts and cultural affairs was so strong that she left her estate to the Arts Association of Alachua County in 2006 to create The Doris Bardon Community Cultural Center.
Affectionately known as “The Doris,” the center opened in October 2011 and has become an increasingly popular venue for a variety of artistic, cultural and community events. With a distinctive and inviting 1950’s retroglass facade and attractive landscaping, the City Beautification Board 2013 Awards | 7
5,400-square-foot building is now a center for classes in the arts, an artist-in-residence program, a print studio, a ceramics workshop and a place for community organizations to meet, network, collaborate and nurture the arts. “Doris had the vision and generously provided the seed money for the center, and it has been sustained by community efforts, including fund-raising campaigns and thousands of volunteer hours as well as grants from the City of Gainesville, Alachua County and the State of Florida,” said Lytha Nicholson, director of the center. “Grass-roots private donations have helped establish the center and are needed to continue her dream.” She said The Doris is working to expand its reach by partnering with others. In March, The Doris
launched a companion exhibit to complement the Thomas Center’s “Search for the Fountain of Youth.” The monthly “ArtWalk Gainesville” program, which showcases art in downtown Gainesville galleries and restaurants, begins at The Doris. University of Florida art students show their work at The Doris, and a new improv company -- “Much Ado About Doris” -- will perform there. “Sunday Soirees” are held around the center’s grand piano. Students from Duval Elementary School sing and learn at the center. “As The Doris grows, we will be able to reach Doris Bardon’s vision for the center: a place for artists, art groups and community members -- including professionals and students of all ages -- to find purpose, enlightenment and joy,” Nicholson said.
Dr. Mohammad Faisal Family Media Center at Oak Hall School 8009 Southwest 14th Avenue, Gainesville The new Dr. Mohammad Faisal Family Media Center at Oak Hall School includes a 3,200-sqaurefoot building connected to an existing building by a covered walkway and landscaped courtyard.
Hall School’s oak tree logo, the soffit growing from the floor and curving into the ceiling represents the trunk of the tree. The storefront filters daylight into reading areas, representing branches.”
“The building is named for the Dr. Mohammad Faisal family who provided the lead donation to make this dream come true,” said Richard Gehman, headmaster of the Oak Hall School. “Dr. Faisal has had three children graduate from Oak Hall, and his youngest is presently in the 11th grade. A great supporter of strong academics, Dr. Faisal served on the Oak Hall Board of Directors for six years.”
The center includes comfortable reading areas, library stacks, research area with laptops and wireless internet, circulation desk and seating for two classes. The Media Center also has a conference room, tech room and multi-media lab with built-in video projection, drop-down screens and darkening curtains. The facility hosts revolving student art displays and has a donor recognition wall in the 200-square-foot lobby. The building is designed for flexibility of future use and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.
Gainesville architect Joe Walker, who designed the Media Center, received an award for the project in 2012 from the Gainesville Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). “The building, which is the first structure visible when visitors enter the Oak Hall School campus, was designed as a centerpiece and a reflection of the natural beauty on campus,” Walker said. “The open floor plan and large expanse of glass provide ample daylight and invite nature into the Media Center. Drawing inspiration from Oak 8 | City Beautification Board 2013 Awards
M.M. Parrish Construction Company, Gainesville, was the builder. Moses & Associates Engineering, Gainesville, was the consultant for mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection. Sputo & Lammert Engineering LLC, Gainesville, was the structural consultant. Causseaux, Hewett & Walpole Inc., Gainesville was the civil engineering consultant.
Gainesville Regional Airport 3880 Northeast 39th Avenue Gainesville’s growing regional airport has completed Phase III of renovations and enhancements at the commercial terminal. The $1.3 million construction program began in June 2012 and was completed in February of this year. “The updates are aesthetically pleasing and will improve passenger accessibility as well as energy efficiency,” said Allan Penksa, chief executive officer for Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV). All non-insulated glass in the front of the passenger terminal has been replaced with energy-efficient glass, and the main entryways are now vestibules to reduce the loss of air conditioning or heating. The curbside drop-off, sidewalks and crosswalks have been reconstructed with a unique pattern of colored concrete with curved lines. Exterior pillar lighting was replaced with LED lighting for energy efficiency and the comfort of late arriving travelers. Fresh paint, new benches and landscaping welcome both residents and visitors to Gainesville and North Central Florida. A new irrigation system uses well water instead of treated water from Gainesville
Regional Utilities (GRU). Disabled parking areas and ramps to the sidewalk were repaved at the front of the short-term parking area. Reynolds, Smith & Hills Inc.(RS&H), Jacksonville, was the design firm for the project. Their team included Greg Smith, project manager, who also served as the electrical engineer and lighting designer; Lawrence Surage, architect; and Sean Brennan, civil engineer. Bruce Robbins and William Horan acted as the project’s landscape designers. The building contractor was West Construction Inc., Lake Worth, Florida. The construction project was coordinated by Robert Chaffee, who acted as site supervisor for West Construction. The landscape contractor is Hunt Whaley of Florida Greens Keepers Inc., Gainesville. The airport also completed a grant-funded photovoltaic solar panel project on the terminal roof with the capacity to capture 292 kilowatts of power. The airport is participating in GRU’s Feed-in Tariff program, selling power back to the utility and reinvesting the income in airport operations.
Kristie’s The Caring Place 1127 Northwest 7th Avenue, Gainesville Originally built as a single family residence in 1960, the building was adapted in 2010 for use as a preschool learning center by Kristie’s The Caring Place Inc., which is licensed and accredited by the Florida Department of Children and Families. About one year after the preschool program was initiated in Gainesville, rapid growth of the program required an expansion of the facility, resulting in the addition in September 2012 of a new 3,000-square-foot building. Designed with building materials and features to match the original residential structure, the 3,000-square-foot addition has a separate entrance
and contains classrooms and restrooms as well as a multipurpose room and office space. The classrooms have access to the children’s play area. The new building was set on piers to match the existing building, and the new landscaped site plan includes the play area and parking. Ricardo Cavallino and Associates Inc., Gainesville, designed the addition, and the building contractors for the project were Moses Construction Inc., Gainesville, and R&A Woods Enterprises Inc., Gainesville.
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Straughn IFAS Extension Professional Development Center 2142 Shealy Drive, Gainesville Named in honor of Alto and Patricia Straughn for their generous financial support, the Straughn IFAS Extension Professional Development Center provides training and conference space that is flexible and configurable to a wide variety of audiences and needs. The center is operated by UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS). Alto Straughn served for many years in IFAS Extension administration and is now one of Florida’s leading blueberry growers. The primary conference room seats 300 people and can be divided to accommodate smaller groups or breakout rooms for separate groups. The second floor of the center serves as the Florida 4H State Headquarters. The space includes a separate lobby, offices, conference rooms, and work and support functions to support the mission of Florida 4H. The outdoor pavilion area provides space for breaks and lunches and includes an interactive teaching garden. The center’s garden project was developed
in collaboration with the IFAS Environmental Horticulture Department Landscape Design program led by Dr. Gail Hansen, assistant professor in the department, and the Center for Landscape Conservation and Ecology. Hansen’s students worked with the IFAS Florida-Friendly Landscape Program staff to develop plans as a class project. The projects were consolidated into a single master plan to showcase Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ principles. The landscape includes a wildlife garden, rain garden and cistern for rainwater harvesting. Project Management was provided by Adam Boudreaux, assistant director of IFAS Facilities Planning & Operations, and Bill Smith, project manager for UF Facilities Planning & Construction. The center was designed by McCullar & Boatwright Architects PA, Orange Park. The Brentwood Company Inc., Gainesville, constructed the center, and Moses & Associates Inc., Gainesville, provided engineering services.
Sweetwater at Duckpond 205-207 Northwest 7th Street, Gainesville A new assisted living facility in the Historic Duckpond Neighborhood opened in February 2012 after extensive renovations of the property. Giovanna Holbrook, who owns the property, moved two 1940s houses to Northwest 7th Street from a site near the University of Florida, thereby saving the homes from demolition. In order to move the buildings across town and clear overhead utility lines, their roofs were removed. With the help of Gainesville architect Jay Reeves and Associates Inc. and Art Middleton Construction LLC in Lacrosse, Florida, the two historic structures were renovated to create attractive accommodations for 12 adults. The two buildings are connected by a breezeway and overlook a swimming pool left on the site after
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a previous structure was destroyed by fire in the 1970s. The homes were improved with the addition of new porches and ramps to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities) standards. The attractive facility also includes driveways and walkways paved with old street brick, and the enclosed swimming pool is surrounded by lush landscaping created by Holbrook. Lynn Anderson, who leases the facility from Holbrook and serves as director of Sweetwater at Duckpond, said the homes provide residents with a full range of services in a comfortable home setting, including meals, nursing care, social activities and security.
COMMERCIAL & RETAIL BUSINESSES Family Dollar 508 Northeast 23rd Avenue, Gainesville In cooperation with Family Dollar Stores Inc., Orlando-based Stephens Barrios Development LLC completed construction in early 2012 of an 8,320-square-foot retail store on Northeast 23rd Avenue. The store, which opened in April 2012, brings employment opportunities and value-oriented retail to the neighborhood. The project stands out because of the collaborative effort made by City of Gainesville staff and the developer to preserve a 58-inch-diameter heritage live oak tree on the site and to enhance the building exterior. With the active involvement of both Earline Luhrman, the city’s urban forestry inspector, and Scott Wright, a senior planner, the city staff and developer were able to work through creative solutions to preserve the beautiful oak tree and meet the
site plan requirements of the tenant. The building exterior was also outfitted with decorative features to enhance the overall aesthetics of the NE 23rd Avenue corridor. The site layout and landscaping were designed by Barrios Engineering LLC, Orlando, and building plans were modified by LIS Engineering and Architecture LLC, Oveido, with additional elements for meeting local codes. General contractor for the project was Pioneer Construction Services Inc., Orlando. Pioneer Construction Services has worked with Stephens Barrios Development to complete several Family Dollar Stores in central and north central Florida. Family Dollar Stores Inc., is headquartered in Matthews, North Carolina.
McDonald’s 2880 Northwest 13th Street, Gainesville McDonald’s, which has served customers from its Northwest 13th Street location since 1976, completely rebuilt their restaurant in 2012 with a new contemporary design and extensive landscaping. With khaki colors and natural ledge stone on the outside, and digital menu boards inside, this McDonald’s is a major improvement on the busy NW 13th Street corridor. The new restaurant includes a side-by-side drive through that allows faster customer service. McDonald’s also added a new covering to the adjacent bus stop.
the buffers and parking area landscaping. Another important design element is the connection to the nature trail in the rear of the McDonald’s property, providing customers and neighbors an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area safely and conveniently. Hartley + Purdy Architects Inc., Tampa, was the architect, and the building contractor was Stansell Properties & Development LLC, Tampa. Civil engineering and landscape design were provided by CPH Engineers Inc., Sanford, Fla.
Most of the existing mature tree canopy surrounding the restaurant was saved through careful planning, design and construction. Environmentally friendly native trees, shrubs and groundcover were added to
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Gainesville Nissan 3915 North Main Street The new Gainesville Nissan dealership is a transformational project for the intersection of North Main Street and 39th Avenue, resulting in a modern update of a facility that opened in the early 1980s. The new 16,639-square-foot building, which reflects the latest Nissan corporate design standards, replaces an older, dated facility that was demolished. The original facility remained open during the construction of the new energy-efficient dealership on the site. The vehicle display area around the building is landscaped with trees and shrubs, presenting an attractive image for the dealership along two busy corridors. A large, functional water feature with a fountain on the east side of the property collects stormwater runoff, and energy-efficient lighting in the parking areas includes cutoff fixtures to prevent
light trespass on North Main Street and Northeast 39th Avenue. To reduce the size of the building footprint, the vehicle parts storage area has two levels, and there is a covered vehicle service drop-off for customers. The efficient, onsite vehicle washing facility is designed to conserve water. The dealership and landscaping were designed by Architectural Alliance, Fort Lauderdale, and the general contractor was Strasser Construction, Ormond Beach. Engineering services were provided by Bryntesen Structural Engineers, Fort Lauderdale; civil engineering services were provided by DRMP Inc., Gainesville, and mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) engineering services were provided by KAMM Consulting, Deerfield Beach.
APARTMENTS Gertner Apartments 1103 Southwest 4th avenue, Gainesville Like bell-bottoms, sideburns and leisure suits, many styles from the 1960’s and 70’s have not stood up to the test of time. Such was the case with the porthole-festooned quadruplex known as the Gertner Apartments on SW 4th Ave in the University Heights Historic District. “Standing in sharp contrast to the classic composure of its neighbors, the justification for such an aesthetic treatment proved to be more ephemeral than enduring,” said John Fleming, managing partner of Trimark Properties, which owns the property. To transform the dated building into a more appropriate design for the traditional neighborhood, Trimark recently completed an extensive renovation of the property. The renovation included adding a large bay window and eliminating the multiple portholes. Interior 12 | City Beautification Board 2013 Awards
renovations included a full range of modern amenities. Large porches and balconies were added to enhance the facade. “Now more appropriately attired in its Craftsman cladding, this former four-eyed fashion faux-pas is now well suited to restore the sense of enduring elegance to the neighborhood,” said architect Howard McLean. The architect for the Gertner Apartment project was Skinner, Vignola, McLean Inc., Gainesville, and the landscape architect was Buford Davis & Associates, Gainesville. Interior design was provided by Personal Interiors by Sally Thompson, ASID, Gainesville.
Laurel Vue 1130 Southwest 5th Avenue, Gainesville In 2007, KLM Holdings and Development LLC, Melbourne, Florida, acquired property located in Gainesville’s University Heights neighborhood across the street from the University of Florida’s Norman Hall and one block from Sorority Row. The site had two neglected buildings that were removed to make way for new luxury apartment residences. With sensitivity to maintaining the character of the neighborhood, KLM created Laurel Vue, which includes 15 apartments with large porches and balconies. Other architectural details include
traditional red brick around the base of the buildings, intricate exterior moldings and panels with historic wood brackets, and an authentic color palette. Extensive landscaping complements the new apartment residences. Jacobs & Associates Inc., Orlando, was the architect. Land planning and civil engineering services were provided by Brown & Cullen Inc., Gainesville. Landscape design was by Sam Bassett Design, Gainesville.
O’Byrne House 202 Northwest 12th Terrace, Gainesville Built in 1925 by Dr. Charles Bell, the first floor of this two-story home was occupied by the Bell family, and they rented the second floor to professors, professionals and college students. The home was owned by the family until Bell’s daughter, Mrs. Betty Mae Bell O’Byrne, sold and entrusted her family’s property to Trimark Properties in January 2012. Immediately, Trimark Properties began a major renovation to restore the historic property to its former glory. Prior to the renovation, window-unit air conditioners dripped condensation stains on the flaking white paint on the original pine lap-siding. The hardwood floors, wide moldings and two-panel doors were all showing the decades of use, and the wood burning fireplace was closed off completely. In just a few months, the property was transformed into a luxury rental property. The home’s original Colonial details were accentuated with a fresh black, grey and white paint scheme. The hardscape
was redesigned for functionality with eight parking spaces, bike racks and waste/recycling. New landscaping complements the architecture and adds focus to the building’s entrance. Inside, a full range of modern amenities includes central heat and air conditioning, indoor laundry facilities, dishwashers and four additional bathrooms with porcelain tile and curved shower rods. The home’s historic features have been restored. Hardwood floors, doors, windows and trim all show new life, and the fireplace is now the focal point of the main living room. This gem on NW 12th Terrace now stands as proudly as it did in 1925. The architect for the project was Skinner, Vignola, McLean Inc., Gainesville, and the landscape architect was Buford Davis & Associates, Gainesville. The building contractor was Trimark Properties, Gainesville, and interior design was provided by Jennifer Grinnan of Trimark Properties.
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Woodbury Row 1122 Southwest 6th Avenue, Gainesville Woodbury Row (Phase Two), which includes 26 new apartment residences that have been successfully integrated with existing single family homes in the University Heights Neighborhood, is located east of the University of Florida campus. Great effort was made to complement existing buildings in the neighborhood -- balancing aesthetics and function to achieve an attractive, well-integrated look. Varied building facades and textures, along with the retention of mature live oak trees and addition of new landscaping, are helping revitalize this historic neighborhood. For each phase of the Woodburry Row development, innovative design has been important. One of the
most innovative aspects of this project was recognizing and satisfying the need for off-street parking. The design added 53 off-street parking spaces, making Southwest 6th Avenue a safer and more pedestrian friendly environment. Woodbury Row is owned by Wheelbarrow and The Car Inc., Gainesville, and managed by Union Properties, Gainesville. Ricardo Cavallino and Associates Inc., Gainesville, was the architect for the project, and Viking Construction of Florida LLC, Gainesville, was the building contractor. Eng, Denman & Associates Inc., Gainesvillle, provided civil engineering. Landscapes Unlimited, Gainesville, designed and installed the new plant materials.
RESTORATION, REVITALIZATION & ADAPTIVE REUSE Catalyst Building 606 Southeast Depot Avenue, Gainesville When Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) completed its new Eastside Operations Center on North Main Street in August 2011, land around GRU’s downtown Kelly Generating Station became available for redevelopment. A former GRU warehouse is the first building on the site to be transformed into contemporary office space. Located just east of the Kelly Power Plant in the new “Power District,” the 22,000-square-foot building has been occupied by Prioria Robotics Inc. since February of this year. As the “Catalyst Building,” the renovated warehouse expects to attract other new developments to the Power District. Acting on behalf of the City of Gainesville, the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) served as the project manager and coordinated design and construction of the project. Building and site design drew on the area’s original industrial character. Care 14 | City Beautification Board 2013 Awards
was taken to reuse the original building envelope and retain unique industrial features while upgrading and enhancing the building and site to meet current code and office standards. Finish materials and colors were selected to enhance the look of the building, while new landscaping and garden amenities drastically reduced the amount of impervious surface on site. The project was completed in just 14 months. Skinner Vignola McLean Inc., Gainesville, was the architect, and Jola Inc., Gainesville, was the landscape architect. Brown and Cullen Inc., Gainesville, was the civil engineer, with additional services provided by Wayland Structural Engineering, Gainesville. MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) engineering was provided by Campbell Engineering of North Florida Inc., Gainesville. Construction services were provided by Charles Perry Partners Inc., Gainesville, and Oelrich Construction, Gainesville.
Chuy’s 3410 Southwest Archer Road, Gainesville After extensive remodeling of the former TooJays Deli in Butler Plaza, Chuy’s opened its first Florida restaurant in Gainesville in June 2012. Parkway Construction & Associates, Dallas, Texas, designed and built the new Gainesville restaurant, creating an eclectic and colorful building accented with neon lighting. The location also has colorful Mexican tile, ceilings adorned with hubcaps, 6-foot-tall metal palm trees and an Elvis shrine. New landscaping was by Immaculate Landscapes LLC,
Gainesville, and Land Design South of Florida Inc., West Palm Beach. Commenting on the unique design for each Chuy’s location, Hilary Delling, Chuy’s marketing manager in Austin, Texas, said: “If you’ve seen one Chuys, you’ve seen one Chuy’s.” She said the restaurant took great steps to ensure the remodeling project was unique and inviting to match their Mexican recipes. Founded in 1982 in Austin, Chuy’s serves Mexican food, using recipes from South Texas, New Mexico and Mexican border towns. Chuy’s now has 40 locations across Texas and the Southeast.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car 730 West University Avenue, Gainesville A former automobile repair service located in an old gas station on West University Avenue has been transformed into a new facility for Enterprise Rent-A-Car, resulting in a major improvement to the appearance of this busy corridor. The renovated building includes a new interior and exterior as well as new signage. Two mature live oak trees on West University Avenue frame the facility. “Our new facility is an example of how we have implemented sustainable values in construction, and we employed local contractors in Gainesville to complete the project,” said Steven Overgaard, group operations manager for Enterprise in Jacksonville. Sustainable materials were used in the renovated building, including regionally produced materials and those with at least 10 percent recycled content. Examples include ceiling tiles, wall graphics, flooring and drywall. “We are also pleased to include energy-efficient controls and systems for interior and exterior needs.
Examples include T5 exterior lighting, double-pane insulated storefront glass, photo sensors for exterior lights and occupancy sensors inside the building. To address indoor air quality, we used low volatile organic compound (VOC) materials in paint, carpet, coatings and adhesives,” Overgaard said. He said Enterprise recognizes the company’s facilities have an impact on the communities where they operate. In 2010, Enterprise committed to reduce both energy use and costs by 20 percent companywide over five years through their 20/20 Vision initiative. In Northeast Florida, he said Enterprise has achieved 13 percent reduction in electricity usage and 35 percent reduction in water consumption since 2010. The design/build work was performed by Anglin Construction Company, Gainesville. Bill Preston Electric Inc., Gainesville, was the electrical contractor.
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FACADE IMPROVEMENTS The Esplanade at Butler Plaza 3262 Southwest 35th Terrace, Gainesville Developed by Clark Butler, the Butler Plaza shopping center includes more than one million square feet of commercial retail development on Archer Road between Southwest 34th Street and I-75. The first phase of the shopping center, which was built in 1975, includes 129,000 square feet of retail space that was acquired by Regency Windmeadows Limited Partnership, Vero Beach, in 1982. A new 38,000-square-foot Publix supermarket was added to the site in 1998. During the past two years, the original center on Southwest 35th Terrace has been redesigned, rebuilt and renamed The Esplanade at Butler Plaza. When Regency Windsor Management, Inc., Vero Beach, began managing the property in 2011, the firm also began major site and building renovations that were completed in January 2013. The architects started with a site analysis to identify primary and secondary access and focal points. To improve storefront visibility, they peeled away the old facade and updated the building with a colorful and contemporary design. “The new facade, lighting and signage dramatically improve the appearance and curb appeal of the original shopping center,” said Hal Lambert, vice chairman of Windsor Property Management Inc. “New
parking, landscaping and extended sidewalks create a safer and more inviting pedestrian space. As a result, The Esplanade at Butler Plaza is now in a position to add value to the Gainesville retail community.” Lambert said the complete makeover of the property, combined with a new management approach, has led to new leases and greater satisfaction among existing tenants. Four Rivers Smokehouse, a bar-b-que restaurant chain from the Orlando area, will open this summer, and McAlister’s Deli is relocating to a larger location in the center. Big Frog Custom T-Shirts opened in February, and other new national tenant leases are being negotiated, including one for the 36,000-square-foot space that was the original Publix store. In addition, the new Panda Express restaurant opened in December 2012 on the outparcel formerly occupied by Captain D’s. RSP Architecture, Minneapolis, Minnesota, designed the center, and Eng, Denman & Associates Inc., Gainesville, provided civil engineering for the center. Joyner Construction Company Inc., Gainesville, was the building contractor, and Buford Davis and Associates, Gainesville, was the landscape architect. In addition, Regency Windsor Management Inc. has retained Front Street Commercial Real Estate Group, Gainesville, to handle leasing.
Henderson Building 625 West University Avenue, Gainesville The Henderson Building, owned by Trimark Properties, was recently remodeled to give the building a strong retail presence on the University Avenue corridor. This was achieved by giving the building facade a smooth stucco finish and using color to emphasize existing architectural design elements on the exterior. Other new features were also added, including large, clear storefront windows, deep fabric awnings and a metal canopy over the sidewalk. 16 | City Beautification Board 2013 Awards
Before Trimark Properties initiated the remodeling project, a large, lighted and non-conforming billboard was removed from the roof of the building, resulting in a major visual improvement for one of Gainesville’s most important gateway corridors. The Henderson Building includes retail and restaurant spaces located at the intersection of West University Avenue and Southwest 7th Street. This area on University Avenue is lined with restaurants,
businesses and specialty shops with high pedestrian traffic. Less than a mile from the University of Florida campus and about one block from UF’s new Innovation Hub development, the Henderson Building is also within walking distance of multifamily and graduate student housing. Two businesses currently housed in the Henderson Building --
Reggae Shack Cafe and Otter & Trout Trading Company -- remained open during the renovation. The facade renovation program was supported with a grant from the Gainesville Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). The architect for the project was Skinner, Vignola, McLean Inc., Gainesville, and the building contractor was Oelrich Construction Inc., Gainesville.
The Rock Downtown 111 South Main Street, Gainesville Formerly a popular pool hall in the downtown area, the building at 111 South Main Street was vacant for several years before being leased in May 2010 by The Rock of Gainesville. After an extensive renovation and restoration program, the church held its first service in January 2011 and continues to host a Sunday evening service, Wednesday night college meeting and seasonal concerts on Fridays and Saturday nights. “The primary goal of the renovation was to restore the building to its original design, and great effort was made to preserve its downtown style and look as an old building,” said Tad Miller, senior team pastor. “The drop ceiling was removed and the finish on the wood ceiling was sandblasted to reveal the beautiful wood of the original construction. No new finishes were added anywhere in the building. The only element added to the facility was a new restroom, and we were able to preserve the original brick walls in that design,” Miller said.
with a view of Main Street while also allowing pedestrians to see activities taking place inside. The interior decor also celebrates downtown Gainesville with large photos of various downtown icons, including photos of many older buildings. Colorful awnings and new, lighted signage highlight the exterior of the building. “While some churches have left the downtown area in recent years, The Rock of Gainesville believes in the downtown community and wanted to be a partner in helping it flourish. With a main church campus in west Gainesville, the downtown location also helped the church establish a presence on the east side and provides an excellent meeting space for The Rock’s college ministry,” Miller said. Stephen Bender, owner of Meta-Design Architecture LLC, Gainesville, was the architect, and the building contractor was Foresight Construction Group, Gainesville.
Windows across the front of the building that had been boarded up were restored, providing patrons
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UNIQUELY GAINESVILLE Southwest 13th Street Overpass The old railway bridge over Southwest 13th Street -- one of the few remaining historical relics of Gainesville’s history as a railroad transportation crossroad -- was converted into a pedestrian overpass during the 1980s. “However, the aesthetics of the converted bridge did not reflect the history or vibrancy of the city,” said Diane Gilreath, project manager for Gainesville’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). “Topped with chain link fencing and razor wire, the pedestrian overpass looked like the entrance to a federal prison,” she said. In 2009, the CRA issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to find a design team that could articulate a great vision and turn the bridge into something unique. During the RFQ process, several teams were shortlisted to present their design ideas. Among them was Reynolds, Smith and Hills Inc. (RS&H), Jacksonville, whose design concept answered all the challenges of the project. The design brought together all the major themes outlined by the CRA, including railroad history, new technology and environmental sustainability. The RS&H concept featured a DNA strand, constructed of light-weight aluminum, to crown the historic railroad bridge. Landscape design was created by Ronald Sill of RS&H. After the project was permitted by the Florida Department of Transportation, the next task was to find a construction team that could turn the vision into a reality. Oelrich Construction Inc., Gainesville, was selected and started construction on the project during summer 2012, and the new overpass opened in November of that year. “Construction was no easy task,” said Joshua Blackford, construction manager for Oelrich
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Construction Inc. Due to its unique design and the fact that the project spanned a major transportation corridor (U.S. Highway 441), the aluminum structure was manufactured off-site and installed in large pieces over the course of a few days. The large twisting motions in the “double helix” meant that each individual cross beam was a different size, resulting in a puzzle of red beams. The old phrase “measure twice, cut once” had a new meaning to the project team, Blackford said. Beyond its striking visual appeal, the overpass retrofit achieved a number of important functional objectives. The project established a much needed connection between the Depot Avenue Rail Trail above and SW 13th Street below. A series of stairs links the popular trail system to Gainesville’s extensive network of sidewalks and public transit. At the top of the stairs, a comfortable overlook plaza provides seating, bike racks and informational signage. The new gateway highlights Gainesville’s commitment to earth-friendly practices and reinforces the city’s leadership in environmental stewardship. Approximately 30 tons of steel from the old bridge were recycled, and only a small number of bridge components were painted. The new enclosure is made entirely of recycled aluminum and the landscaped terraces create an urban rain garden. The landscape architect was Ronald Sill of RS&H. At night, the bridge is illuminated with LED lighting, creating not only a safe path of travel, but a striking entrance into Gainesville and a great first impression of the city.
OUTSTANDING COMMERCIAL AWARDS Ashton Lane 1102 Southwest 5th Avenue, Gainesville A visible example of high density in-fill development, the second phase of the Ashton Lane apartment project consists of six newly constructed buildings ranging in size from a single-unit townhome to a three-story, nine-unit apartment building nestled among eight existing structures. The architectural style of each new building is tailored to complement the surrounding structures and relies heavily on masonry first-floor exteriors, coupled with exposed rafters and beams as unifying elements. Ashton Lane’s appeal stems largely from the extensive pedestrian pathways that connect all corners of the site. Inviting vehicular entrances, which screen parked cars from view, enhance the complex with prominent masonry entry walls adorned with inlaid medallions. Walkways made of tumbled pavers guide pedestrians between three interior courtyards through decorative arbors and trellises. Each courtyard has a unique character unified by the signature water fountains
that are ubiquitous at Trimark Properties. One courtyard features a massive outdoor masonry fireplace and benches that provide a comfortable atmosphere for casual gatherings. The alley bisecting the project has been landscaped and lighted to encourage non-vehicular activities and create a pedestrian corridor that invites movement between the north and south parcels. Four of the site’s historic homes had deteriorated significantly during their 75 year history and were in need of extensive repairs. Trimark Properties was able to renovate all four existing homes completely to create a unique community setting that blends contemporary buildings with the historic residences. The architect for the project was Skinner, Vignola, McLean Inc., Gainesville, and the landscape architect was Buford Davis & Associates, Gainesville. Interior design was provided by Personal Interiors by Sally Thompson, ASID, Gainesville.
Roberts’ Stadium Club 1802 West University Avenue, Gainesville After several years of delay during construction, the Stadium Club has been completed, bringing new retail, restaurant, office and apartment space to the busy West University Avenue corridor bordering the University of Florida campus. Construction on the eight-story Stadium Club luxury condominium project began in September 2007 with plans to open in time for the 2008 football season, but work was halted in December 2007 when construction financing fell through, leaving a fivestory concrete shell vacant for three years. In October 2010, the unfinished building was acquired during a foreclosure auction by Larry Roberts, owner of R+L Carriers Inc. in Wilmington, Ohio, and construction of the building resumed. The
renamed Roberts’ Stadium Club now includes retail on the first three floors, office space on the third and fourth, office and/or residential space on the fifth, sixth and seventh floors with two penthouse suites on the eighth floor. The Roberts Stadium club could house up to 21 residential units. A rooftop patio provides expansive views over the city and university campus. The attractive mixed-use building, which includes a contemporary brick and glass exterior with balconies, has retail spaces on the ground level occupied by a new sushi restaurant (How Do You Roll?) and a women’s clothing store (Henri Girl Boutique). Brick sidewalks with six live oak trees complement the structure. An adjacent parking City Beautification Board 2013 Awards | 19
garage with retail stores on the ground level is now nearing completion. The architect for the project is Smith Santiesteban Allen Architects Inc., Tampa, and the civil engineer
is Sergio Reyes of Eng, Denman and Associates Inc., Gainesville. The building construction contractor is Luetgert Development Corporation, Ocala.
Walmart Supercenter 5700 Northwest 23rd Street, Gainesville The new Gainesville Northwood Walmart Supercenter on Northwest 34th Street, which replaces the former Walmart store on Northwest 13th Street, is an attractive and transformational state-of-the-art project for this growing area of the city. The new 170,000-square-foot store has three entrances: one facing NW 34th Street, one facing NW 23rd Street and one facing the main parking area. In order to reduce the massing of a big-box design, the store facade was broken up to resemble a series of individual shops. The use of canopies, extensive glazing and lower roof elements along the three entrance facades helped create a pedestrian-friendly scale for the building. In addition, there are pedestrian amenities, including outdoor seating, foundation landscaping and an exterior café area. A bus shelter and parking area on NW 23rd Street provide additional pedestrian access. The bus shelter design included building materials used in the design of the main building. The Garden Center design incorporates a glazed decorative wall system that ties in with the glazing on the east elevation and helps to form the main facade along NW 34th Street. Sustainable building features include: skylights and a daylight harvesting system; rain water collection system; use of LEDs for all signage, freezer cases and jewelry cases; energy-efficient T-8 fluorescent tubes for all interior lighting; occupancy sensors in all nonsales areas; and an energy management system to control heating, air conditioning, refrigeration systems and lighting.
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From a landscape perspective, the Gainesville Northwood Walmart Supercenter is a well-designed, walkable development that provides safe access and appropriate human scale for pedestrians. The project unifies the area through an integrated landscape design for the Walmart site and roadways, stretching well into the surrounding neighborhood. The site includes a new park-and-ride facility for Gainesville’s Regional Transit System (RTS). Due to the size and location of this site, a variety of tree species were selected to provide buffering, accent, shade and mitigation of the existing canopy. Nearly 90 percent of the selected species are native to North Central Florida, and all of them are hardy, durable and drought-tolerant. Walmart encourages the use of Xeriscape design principles for landscaped areas that are viable and sustainable within the challenging conditions of the commercial retail environment. These principles include replacing high water-demanding turf areas in parking lot islands with a pleasing array of massed groundcovers that are drought-tolerant, durable and weed-competitive. Several “bio-swales” within the parking lot capitalize on the plants’ natural affinity for nutrient uptake and root growth, thereby enhancing the treatment of storm water runoff through pollutant removal and enhanced infiltration. For the watering of most trees, shrubs and groundcover, inefficient spray heads have been replaced with drip irrigation, allowing for the delivery of water directly to the roots for healthy plant establishment.
BRR Architecture Inc., Merriam, Kansas, designed the new Walmart Supercenter, and CPH Engineers Inc., Sanford, Florida, provided civil engineering and
landscape design. JA Fielden General Contractors, Knoxville, Tennessee, was the builder.
OUTSTANDING INSTITUTIONAL AWARDS UF & Shands Family Medicine at Main 1707 North Main Street, Gainesville Owned and operated by the University of Florida’s College of Medicine, the new UF & Shands Family Medicine at Main facility was designed and built to serve Gainesville family health care needs on the east side of the city. The building is an extension of the city’s expanding downtown fabric. The two-story, 24,200-square-foot facility, which is 40 percent larger than the former UF & Shands facility on Southwest 4th Avenue, has 25 examination rooms, two procedure rooms, a radiology room, laboratory and rooms for group visits and counseling. The first floor is primarily exam and treatment rooms surrounding a large reception area. The second floor is dedicated to offices, support space, conference and training rooms. Along with adult and pediatric comprehensive care, UF & Shands Family Medicine at Main offers orthopedics and sports medicine, dermatology, podiatry, OB/GYN, prenatal care and ultrasound, pharmacy education, social services, behavioral health care, lab tests, stress tests and X-rays. The team also performs minor surgical procedures such as flexible
nasolaryngoscopy, colposcopy, skin biopsies and lesion removals. Creating an attractive, energy-efficient facade was a major challenge. This was achieved by creating two distinct facades along North Main Street. First, the building was setback from the street to provide landscaped areas and address the privacy issue. Energy efficiency in the building was enhanced with metal-panel-clad walls on insulated concrete forms and limited window openings. The second facade is a masonry and brick structure perforated by openings of various size and shapes that serve as a framework for glass, screens and artwork. Trimark Properties developed the property, and the building contractor was Parrish-McCall Constructors Inc., Gainesville. The architect for the project was Skinner, Vignola, McLean Inc., Gainesville, and civil engineering was provided by Causseaux, Hewett & Walpole Inc., Gainesville. Buford Davis and Associates, Gainesville, was the landscape architect.
UF and Shands at Springhill 4037 Northwest 86th Terrace, Gainesville The need for convenience and ease of access for the growing patient population in the Gainesville area inspired the University of Florida and Shands Healthcare to create the new medical campus at Springhill. The $35-million facility, which was completed in November 2012, combines primary care women’s health practices with specialty practices in a single location to provide patients with better support. The combined facility also
offers the opportunity for cross-referrals among specialty clinics. Designed by Flad Architects, Gainesville, and constructed by Skanska USA Building Inc., Tampa, the facility is the first signature building on the new campus. The 110,000-square-foot medical office building is a state-of-the-art clinic with eight clinical suites on four floors. It was designed to be City Beautification Board 2013 Awards | 21
patient-focused, including the latest advances in medical technology. The building is being submitted to the U.S. Green Building Council, Washington, D.C., for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification The building orientation and site placement was in response to the organic nature of the site, thereby enhancing the overall patient experience. The convex, curved west facade responds to the sweeping curve of the main road, offering an inviting entrance for the public. The facility’s massing is composed of three simple expressions -- the thickened wall which defines the curve along the road, the clinical volume and the vertical circulation elements. The design of the campus incorporates cues from existing natural amenities to create a comfortable,
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park-like setting. The landscape includes walking trails with shade trees and a dedicated multi-use path, encouraging people to engage with the outdoors. To enhance patient access and safety, a dedicated lane was developed to separate patient drop-off from other traffic circulation on the site. The master plan also supports flexible and phased expansion of the facility in the future. Civil engineering was provided by Causseaux, Hewett & Walpole Inc., Gainesville, and landscape designed was provided by Flad Architects and Buford Davis and Associates, Gainesville. MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) services were provided by Affiliated Engineers Inc., Gainesville.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Music: Vic Donnell Wine donated by:Wood Resource Recovery LLC & Gaston’s Tree Service LLC Catering: Publix Floral Design: Nina Ring Plants: City of Gainesville Nature Operations Division Printed Program: Renaissance Printing Award Narratives and Cover Photos: Chuck Woods Graphic Design: Tracy Bryant
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Some 2013 City Beautification Board award winners in various categories
Laurel Vue Apartments
Woodbury Row Apartments
Gertner House
McDonald’s
Gainesville Nissan
Gainesville Regional Airport
Sweetwater at Duckpond
Catalyst Building
Chuy’s
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
The Rock Downtown
Straughn IFAS Extension Professional Development Center
Henderson Building
The Doris Bardon Community Cultural Center
The Esplanade at Butler Plaza
Dr. Mohammad Faisal Family Media Center at Oak Hall School
Outstanding Commercial Award: Roberts’ Stadium Club
Outstanding Commercial Award: Walmart Supercenter on Northwest 23rd Street
Outstanding Institutional Award: Shands & UF at Springhill