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The spaces are simply detailed with stained and scored concrete floors, exposed steel structure and stair, beaded board ceiling, and neutral walls for the display of art. A metal structure, slab-on-grade, and metal corrugated siding and roofing were chosen to satisfy a tight budget. On the exterior is a combination of standard metal building components and antique and new mahogany doors and transoms. Savings on exterior materials were lavished on interior finishes such as teak cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and custom hardware.

A third merit award went to the Communicare Chemical Dependency Unit in Oxford, Mississippi, by Howorth & Associates Architects. Also known as Haven House, this residential drug-and-alcohol treatment facility houses up to 48 clients in double-occupancy suites. The 14,000-square-foot (1,300-square-meter) building also includes counseling offices, a dining room, group therapy rooms, conference rooms, and lounges.

The new building is credited with inspiring new programs to improve treatment, especially for clients who suffer addiction in combination with other problems such as depression or complications from abuse. "The beauty and functionality of the building combines with the quality of our treatment program to inspire patient confidence and motivation," notes Dr. Michael Roberts, Communicare executive director.

The single 2003 Gulf States Region honor award went to Louisiana State University's Academic Center for Student Athletes in Baton Rouge, designed by Trahan Architects. Additional merit awards went to Holy Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Franklin, Tennessee by BAUER Architecture, and the National Civil Rights Museum Expansion in Memphis, Tennessee by Looney Ricks Kiss and Self Tucker Architects.

The jury for this awards program was chaired by architect Steven Holl, FAIA, and included other members of his firm.

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French doors open out to undeveloped wetlands from the Golden Residence, by W. Geoff Gjertson, AIA, one of the Gulf States Region merit award winners. Photo: © Hyatt Hood Simple materials, simply detailed, characterize the Golden Residence. Photo: © Hyatt Hood A private courtyard behind the Communicare Chemical Dependency Unit in Oxford, Mississippi, by Howorth & Associates Architects. Photo: © Timothy Hursley Spaces in the Communicare Chemical Dependency Unit balance needs of privacy and community. Image: Howorth & Associates Architects   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.