Architecture jury chair, Jack Hartray, FAIA, notes trends in this year's selections: "It seems that we have moved past the 'isms' — regionalism, modernism, classicism — and we are now looking at a much more democratic and diverse mix of projects... There seems to be a return to the focus on the structural integrity of the building reminiscent of the 1940s and 1950s. [The jury] favored the projects that represented a healthy level of experimentation and courage."

One of the architecture projects selected for recognition is the Boston Public Library branch in Allston, Massachusetts, designed by Machado and Silvetti Associates, Inc. Serving partly as a community outreach center, the 20,0000 square foot (1900-square-meter) library is divided into three parallel bands — two "solid" zones and one central void — corresponding to its basic programmatic functions. The jury praised the building for its craft, tectonics, and materials. "The building's facade," they wrote, "is civic in nature yet appropriately scaled for the neighboring houses. The inviting interior spaces are filled with natural light and conducive to reading and research."   >>>