Architecture instructor Mike Jacobs wins two AIA design awards

Michael Jacobs, FAIA President Emeritus of Omni Architects and UK College of Design School of Architecture studio Instructor, was the design architect for two projects recently recognized by the 2023 AIA Kentucky Design Honor Awards Program.

The 2023 AIA Kentucky Design Honor Awards Program led by Baltimore-based jurors convened on Friday, June 16 and identified six (6) projects for recognition. Of the 39 entries received for this year's program, Michael Jacobs, FAIA President Emeritus of Omni Architects and UK College of Design School of Architecture studio Instructor was the design architect on two of these design awards for excellence. The awards were presented at the AIA Indiana/AIA Kentucky Convention on Friday, September 15, 2023.

“We appreciate the overall thoughtfulness and creativity in this year’s submissions. The range and diversity of projects was exciting to review. Many of the projects had a strong connection to community, to place, and attention to sustainability. Several projects had interesting detailing that helped with deliberations among the jury members.” 

HONOR AWARD – New Construction: greater than $10M and less than $25M
JCTC Advanced Manufacturing & Information Technology Center – Louisville, KY
Architect of Record: Omni Architects
Owner: Commonwealth of Kentucky Division of Engineering & Contract Administration Jury Comments:
“The building is a thoughtfully composed project where the diagram reinforces the architectural solution. The scale of the building fits nicely into its context, and it is not over-designed. There is a strong relationship between the exterior and interior spaces, and the simplicity and selective use of color in the interior spaces makes the project stronger. We appreciate the idea of exposing training spaces to the exterior spaces toward the street. The use of a high-performing envelope and on-site energy generation add to a wonderful community story.”

MERIT AWARD – New Construction: greater than $10M and less than $25M Bullitt County Public Library – Shepherdsville, KY

Architect of Record: Omni Architects
Owner: Bullitt County Public Library Central Branch

Jury Comments:

“Just an overall strong project. There are several nice gestures nodding toward sustainability coupled with civic fun. It is a clear, legible solution that many would feel comfortable navigating through and experiencing.” 

PUBLICATION - Bullitt County Central Library is recognized for its sustainable leadership

The new Bullitt County Central Library is featured in September 1, 2023 edition of American Libraries' 2023 Libraries Design Showcase, recognized for its sustainable leadership. The annual showcase celebrates new and renovated libraries that address patron needs in exciting and effective ways. The ALA notes that, 'This year’s selections represent a return to prepandemic normalcy and demonstrate a firm step into the future, with physical spaces designed to draw in communities, celebrate local history, and acknowledge diverse natural environments”.

The Bullitt County Central Library supports the users’ emerging differences and competing expectations with comfort and quality, while also positioning the library as a community leader in sustainability. The building features 610 rooftop solar collectors, producing 50% of the library's estimated electrical usage, geothermal energy, and rain gardens demonstrating good stewardship and bringing community support. The Central Library inspires others to embrace new behaviors by promoting sustainable practices and concepts. Four interior courtyards reflecting Aristotle’s elements and the seasons allow the community and staff to enjoy the outdoors while using the entire facility. An abundance of windows combined with white shelving allows a wealth of natural light to filter throughout the 45,000-square-foot facility. A need for accessible space was answered with a variety of sizable study, community, and meeting rooms providing spaces for multiple groups while a large event is underway. Staff from multiple departments and administration are found under one roof, allowing for efficiency and effectiveness. Technology abounds in the Maker and Digital Media Labs, gaming systems, and the Anytime Pickup Locker for easy retrieval of holds. These additions anticipate community needs and assist individuals with learning something new that they can apply to their lives. The youngest in the community fall in love with the large PlaySpace, with its permanent sensory activities and interactive learning stations, creating a place to explore, learn, and enjoy.