The New England chapter of the American Institute of Architects has recognized OPAL’s Alnoba project with an Honor award, the highest designation in its annual design awards program. Located in Kensington, New Hampshire, on the 400-acre campus of the Alnoba retreat center, the project drew praise for incorporating regional vernacular elements, including exposed, reclaimed-timber structural frames, in a design with the distinction of delivering Passive House performance in a large institutional building. Presenting the award in a ceremony held at Alnoba—an additional honor for our firm—the panel of judges also remarked that “it’s all artfully executed and crafted. It really is all about the materiality and sense of place.” With the AIA New England award, Alnoba completes a trifecta of regional design awards, having already received an Honor award from AIA New Hampshire and a Citation from AIA Maine.
