WASHINGTON — The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and its Committee on the Environment (COTE) have selected 10 examples of architectural and green design solutions that "protect and enhance the environment." The top 10 building projects were honored on May 1 during a presentation at the National Building Museum. They will be honored again on May 9 at the AIA National Convention and Design Expo in San Diego.

According to the AIA, the top 10 projects make a positive contribution to their community, improve comfort for building occupants, and reduce environmental impacts through strategies such as: reuse of existing structures, connection to transit systems, low-impact site development, energy and water conservation, use of green construction materials, and design that improves indoor air quality.

Facilities selected include both new construction and renovation of office, retail, residential, academic, and institutional facilities.

Listed in alphabetical order, the projects are:

Argonne Child Development Center, San Francisco;

Chicago Center for Green Technology, Chicago;

Colorado Court Affordable Housing, Santa Monica, Calif.;

Cusano Environmental Education Center, Philadelphia;

Fisher Pavilion, Seattle;

Herman Miller Marketplace, Zeeland, Mich.;

Hidden Villa Hostel & Summer Camp, Los Altos Hills, Calif.;

San Mateo County (Calif.) Sheriff's Forensic Laboratory and Coroner's Office;

Steinhude Sea Recreation Facility, Steinhude, Germany; and

Wine Creek Road Residence, Healdsburg, Calif.

Publication date: 05/05/2003