Once again, Su Casa magazine and the Albuquerque chapter of the American Institute of Architects bring to our readers the finest architecture in our annual residential design awards competition. Open to architects and their projects in New Mexico, the competition attracted a variety of entries from several of New Mexico’s most distinguished names—including Antoine Predock, who was recently awarded the AIA Gold Medal for his significant and influential body of work—as well as talented emerging architects. The jurors were Garrett Smith, AIA, Robert Peters, AIA, and Charles C. Poling, Su Casa editor, all of Albuquerque. Cecilia Portal, director of AIA, Albuquerque, coordinated the event.

As the judges evaluated the winners, two interesting if divergent themes emerged. Both reflect the context of place. First, several of the homes incorporate courtyards enclosed by wings, a design that updates, extends, or at least tips its hat to the classic Spanish Colonial hacienda. A second theme stood out among the remodeled homes, which sought in various ways to redefine the suburban residence for the 21st century. In any case, as the photos on these pages reveal, New Mexican architecture continues to explore the meaning and boundaries of regionalism and to find new ways of responding to the no-longer basic need for shelter.

 

For your further reading and viewing pleasure, we also offer a closer look at one of the awarded homes, the Slotten-Murphy residence designed by Laura Van Amburgh and Antonio Parés (see page 88).

To read the complete story, please find Su Casa at your local newsstand or order it online here or by phone at 505-344-1783 or toll-free 866-256-4925.