These awards were established a half century ago "to elevate the general quality of architectural practice, establish a standard of excellence against which all architects can measure performance, and inform the public of the breadth and value of architecture."

This year's selection includes a good share of educational and community projects, along with those focused on corporate, high-tech, and upscale residential environments.

As examples, the winners include a "drop-in" center that offers a dignified respite for the homeless in downtown Los Angeles, an aquatics complex in suburban Detroit, and a successful, mixed-use neighborhood in Baltimore that was transformed from segregated public housing.

"One of the undeniable pleasures of a booming economy is the rich palette of architectural projects undertaken," said AIA President John D. Anderson, FAIA. And this year's Honor Award recipients offer some of the best."