Virginia by Design recognizes the best efforts of designers and visionaries in Virginia who, by profession or avocation, have made creating, preserving, and enhancing design in Virginia a notable endeavor, which elevates the power of design. The awards specifically highlight excellence in design, visionary thinking, patronage and the transformative role of design in shaping the built environment. The Virginia by Design Awards are part of The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design’s programming.

This year, Associate Professor Phoebe Crisman, was awarded the Prize for Public Interest Design for her Elizabeth River Project. This prize is for a creative project that has transformed its surroundings, whether a setting, neighborhood or community within Virginia. For 12 years, Phoebe has partnered with the Elizabeth Rover Project which promotes sustainable redevelopment of the river especially in Hampton Roads. The work includes a large Eco-Industrial Corridor Plan, a Learning Barge, Paradise Creek Nature Park Wetland Lab and River Academy. 

Congratulations Phoebe on this well-deserved award!