AIA Maine Recognizes Maine Leaders in Accessible Architecture with the SustainABLE for ME Awards

Alpha One and the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Maine Chapter celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act by honoring Maine’s top examples of accessible architecture. Projects were recognized that demonstrated creative sensitivity toward the accessibility of all users and help create a more sustainable Maine.

Two top awards, called the Honor Awards, were awarded. The first, in the category of residential, went to Buksport architect, John Gordon AIA for the design of 363HOUSE for his client and daughter Jessica. Jessica is a C6/C7 quadriplegic – paralyzed from mid-chest down with limited use of arms and hands.  The design mandate for 363HOUSE was to support Jessica’s abilities and minimize barriers to an accessible life. Doing so required a skillful blend of universal design and accessibility principles.

The second Honor Award, in the category of existing, went to WBRC Architects ∙ Engineers for their renovation of the Cross Insurance Arena. The renovations allowed Cross Insurance Arena to attract and accommodate larger shows and events, while offering everyone safer and equal access to Portland’s premier sports and entertainment venue.

The projects were judged by jurors Myra Berloff of Kessler/McGuiness  and former State of Massachusetts Architectural Access Board, Steven Demos, AIA of Institute for Human Centered Design, Mark Jackson of Steven Winters Associates, and Deborah Pierce AIA, of Pierce Lamb Architects.

The awards event was held on September 25 at Pine Tree Camp in Rome, ME.

For a complete overview of the projects submitted and winners visit the website www.sustainableforme.org.