TAMPA, FL –The Tampa Bay Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) has recognized Lakeland-based Straughn Trout Architects, LLC as the 2012 Firm of the Year. The announcement was part of the Chapter’s Honor and Design Awards held on November 1st at the Tampa Museum of Art.
More than 200 members of the design and construction community were present enjoying great food, incredible views of Downtown Tampa and music compliments of “Rock the Park” in the adjacent Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Larry Wilder, AIA, chapter president, was the master of ceremonies for the event that also recognized City of Tampa Mayor, Bob Buckhorn for his work improving the built environment of Tampa. For a full list of all individual, team and project awards, contact Jessica Smith Skinner at the AIA Tampa Office, (813) 229-3411 or Jessica@aiatampabay.com.
Straughn Trout Architects (STA) was recognized for their consistent leadership, vision, and ability, advancing the profession through community services and support of the AIA. For fifty-six years, STA has been an enhancer of the architectural community, speaking out to all concerning the profession and its contributions to those who experience it.
Through their design and implementation of works of architecture and as well as their professional leadership, STA has enhanced the quality of the built environment in their local community as well as across the state. With a portfolio that spans over a half-century, works include a range from contemporary architecture to restoration of historically significant structures. The firm has been recognized for attention to detail as well as clarity in design.
The firm’s notable projects include two campuses and twelve buildings for Polk State College including the new Chain of Lakes Building on the Winter Haven Campus. This project is the first educational building of its kind in Polk County. It has received LEED for Schools GOLD certification from the US Green Building Council and was recently recognized by the Polk County Board of Commissioners with a “Livable Polk” award for its contribution to sustainable development. Straughn Trout Architects also played a key role in creating a partnership between the school and the Green Education Foundation that provides green building curriculum.
The South Lakeland branch of Magnify Credit Union is another signature project of the firm. This building has received local, regional, and national recognition for its Zero Energy Building design as one of less than two dozen in the country and the first in Florida. Other notable works include the McKay Archives Center at Florida Southern College, the Polk Museum of Art, the Lakeland Public Library, George Jenkins High School and Family Worship Center (Lakeland).
The firm has demonstrated strong stewardship and mentoring abilities, shepherding the profession’s direction and future professionals. Corporate citizenship is an integral component of the firm’s identity. As a business operating in the Lakeland and Greater Central Florida community, they embrace the social responsibility and expectations that are expected of them. Firm members’ community involvement has included the Polk Museum of Art, the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra, Lakeland Friends of the Library, Citrus Center Kiwanis Club, Lakeland South Rotary Club, Polk State College Foundation, Florida Southern College Spivey Society, Polk County Code Enforcement Board, Auburndale High School’s Architecture & Engineering Academy Advisory Board, just to name a few.