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The Award
This award recognizes the outstanding achievement of a firm that has produced notable architecture for at least a decade. Award-winning firms have set an example both in design and leadership in the state. Criteria include an outstanding portfolio as a product of the firm’s collaborative environment. Through its work it has made a significant impact on its community and/or the architecture profession. Demonstrates a commitment to training future architects. Additionally, they exhibit a culture that embraces diversity and is widely known for the quality of its work, ability to work with clients and collaboration as a team by architects, designers, educators, and the public. They are known for the application of innovative technologies and/or progressive methodologies and developed works to achieve resilient and sustainable design goals.
Presented by Jim Childs, AIA
AVP – Project Director, HNTB
2026 AIA Colorado President-Elect
HDR
HDR demonstrates how a firm with global reach can remain genuinely invested in Colorado’s people, places, and professional community.
Across six Colorado offices, HDR pairs broad interdisciplinary expertise with a strong local presence. Its work supports communities through healthcare, research, civic, educational, transportation, and public-service projects, while its design culture emphasizes listening, collaboration, and respect for the people each project serves. The jury recognized a substantial body of high-quality work, a long-standing commitment to sustainable design, and an ability to bring national resources to distinctly local challenges.
Equally important is the firm HDR has built around that work. Its employee-owned model, mentorship culture, support for AIA participation, investment in emerging professionals, and commitment to inclusive practice create meaningful pathways for architects to grow and lead. By combining design excellence with professional development, community engagement, and future-focused practice, HDR sets a strong example for firms throughout Colorado.
The jury is proud to recognize HDR as the 2026 AIA Colorado Firm of the Year.
Congratulations!
Why the jury selected HDR
- Maintains a meaningful Colorado presence through six offices and decades of service in the state.
- Pairs local knowledge with integrated national and global expertise across architecture, engineering, planning, interiors, landscape architecture, and research.
- Demonstrates a broad, high-quality portfolio serving civic, healthcare, research, education, transportation, and community needs.
- Has pursued high-performance and sustainable design for decades and actively supports the AIA 2030 Commitment.
- Uses an employee-owned model that encourages shared responsibility, collaboration, and long-term investment in the firm.
- Supports AIA involvement by reimbursing membership dues and encouraging staff participation and leadership.
- Invests in mentorship, internships, education, and professional development for emerging architects.
- Builds multidisciplinary teams around each project while centering local context and stakeholder voices.
- Demonstrates community engagement, including pro bono support and partnerships grounded in lasting trust.
- Meets the award’s expectations for design quality, firm culture, sustainability, client service, and professional leadership.