The downtown Riverwalk and the Chinatown branch of the Chicago Public Library were named national design winners from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) on January 12. Presented annually by the Washington, D.C.-based AIA, the Institute Honor Awards recognize excellence in architecture, interior architecture and urban design.
The Riverwalk from Chicago’s Ross Barney Architects achieved the rare distinction of being honored in both the architecture and urban design categories. It transformed derelict spaces along the south bank of the Chicago River’s main branch into a thriving chain of plazas, greenery, fountains, bars and restaurants.
The AIA honored the Chinatown Branch Library for interior architecture. Designed by Brian Lee of the Chicago office of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the library was a bold break from the city’s past practice of erecting look-alike public buildings. Its light-filled interior, which revolves around a two-story skylit atrium, houses expansive reading areas with views of the downtown skyline and playful, custom-designed zones for children and teenagers. The library serves as a “civic, educational, and social hub for the city’s Chinatown neighborhood,” the AIA said.