Wiley|Wilson is honored to have won an American Institute of Architects (AIA) Blue Ridge Design Citation Award for its design of the National Wild Turkey Foundation’s Hunting Heritage and Outdoor Education Center (HHOEC) in Edgefield, SC. According to AIA BR, these awards are presented bi-annually to those designs that represent the best solution to the problem presented and that are deemed excellent in both architecture and design. Wiley|Wilson was one of 11 firms recognized for a submitted design.

“We are very proud that our design for this facility has been recognized by AIA Blue Ridge,” said Randy Vaughan, AIA, Wiley|Wilson Vice President, Department Manager, Architectural. “Our creative approach to this facility focused on the idea of designing a quintessential hunting lodge, but incorporating modern elements so the facility would be both functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Our client is quite happy with the end result and we are honored that our design is being celebrated by our peers.”

The HHOEC is a 9,275-SF timber structure that sits on a 700-acre wildlife preserve, which is a popular destination for hunting and conservation enthusiasts, researchers, and educators. The building houses educational elements but also serves as a teaching tool itself, illustrating sustainable design practices like passive cooling, natural daylighting, and the incorporation of locally sourced materials. The pavilion offers a retreat from the hot southern sun. Eight-feet-tall masonry buttresses support the timber frames and cover the open area while the roof deck and overhangs create a large shaded canopy without restricting airflow and movement through the facility. Structurally insulated panels (SIPs) provide high thermal resistance and protect the interior from the sun’s heat. The heavy timber trusses are inspired by a turkey’s decorative fan tail and serve as the focal point for the facility. Radiated timber uprights and scalped bottom chords form a segmented arch while the contrasting steel connector plates and diagonal struts complement the timber’s form.

AIA Blue Ridge celebrated the 2016 award winners at its biannual Design + Honor Awards Gala on Friday, October 14 at the Taubman Museum of Art in Roanoke, VA. Frank Harmon, FAIA, who served as this year’s jury chair, was on-hand to share insights from this year’s panel on its award selections. Visit the AIA Blue Ridge website for more information about the gala and this year’s award recipients.