CHARLESTON — An Elkins project was honored, and an Elkins student received a scholarship, during an awards dinner Saturday.

The American Institute of Architects West Virginia Chapter (AIA WV) proudly recognized outstanding achievements in design, innovation, and community impact at its annual Design Awards Gala and Scholarship Benefit on Saturday, May 3 at the WVSU Capitol Center in downtown Charleston.

This year’s award recipients represent a diverse range of impactful projects that elevate communities and reflect design excellence throughout the Mountain State.

All awards were determined through a confidential, unbiased judging process conducted by an external jury of architectural professionals.

Mills Group, of Morgantown, received two awards:

* The Tygart Hotel in Elkins was honored with a Citation Award for Achievement in Architecture,Renovation/Restoration for transforming a historic building into a vibrant downtown anchor in Elkins.

* Clear Mountain Bank Suncrest Branch received a Citation Award for Achievement in Architecture, New Construction, noted for its strong visual presence and community accessibility.

In addition to project honors, AIA West Virginia recognized eight recipients of the 2025 West Virginia Foundation for Architecture (WVFA) scholarships, supporting the next generation of architects and design leaders. This year’s recipients are:

* Victoria Metz (Elkins)

* Quinn Arzt. (Shepherdstown)

* Hannah Driggs (Charleston)

* Tristan Sharp (Morgantown)

* Annie Pierson-Escalona (Ripley)

* Zachary Taylor (Parkersburg)

* Baylie Ostvig (Fredericksburg, Va.)

* Kyle Kutcher (Kearneysville)

The AIA WV Design Awards Gala brought together architects, civic leaders, and design advocates from across the state to recognize excellence in architecture, celebrate student achievement, and foster professional connections.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the architects and firms who continue to shape West Virginia’s built environment with creativity, integrity, and a deep sense of place,” said Antonia Edwardson, Executive Director of AIA West Virginia. “The Design Awards Gala is not only a celebration of excellent work, but a reminder of how architecture influences the way we live, connect, and grow as communities.”

ZMM Architects & Engineers, of Charleston, received three awards, for its work on Stargazing Cabins at Coopers Rock State Forest, earning earned an Honor Award for Excellence inArchitecture, Residential and an Honor Award for Excellence in Craftsmanship, recognizing its integration of contemporary design within a remote natural setting.; and on Clendenin Elementary School, which was recognized with a Merit Award for Achievement in Architecture, New Construction for its thoughtful response to rebuilding after the 2016 floods.

For more information about the Design Awards and AIA West Virginia, visit www.aiawv.org.