2019 Preservation Awards
Richardson Olmsted Campus
Buffalo, New York
AWARD for the exceptional restoration and adaptive reuse of this nationally significant early hospital complex designed by architect H.H. Richardson with its accompanying Frederick Law Olmsted-designed landscape.
The Buffalo State Hospital built between 1869 and 1872 has a place in most architectural history textbooks as a formative early work of H.H. Richardson with landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Decommissioned for patients in 1974 and only partially occupied until the mid-1990’s, this complex was included on the Most Endangered Places List of the National Trust in 1999.
The Richardson Center Corporation was organized in 2006 and instituted a study, then a planning process for rehabilitation of the vast complex of buildings and grounds. Adaptive reuse included development of hotel, restaurant and conference center, as well as reclamation of much of the original landscape design. Community involvement was stimulated by attractive online resources, student internships, and tours. They were awarded the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation National Preservation Award in 2018.
DC Preservation League
Washington, DC
AWARD for a distinguished record of advocacy to protect and preserve the architectural heritage of Washington, D.C., and for innovative and stimulating educational programs that serve as a model for other cities.
Initially created in 1971 as activists gathered to protest the proposed demolition of Willoughby Edbrooke’s Post Office (1899), the group matured as it advocated for the Franklin School, the Willard Hotel, and the Warner Theater. The Historic Landmark and Historic District Protection Act of 1978 was the result of their advocacy work and provided the legal context for inventories and regular preservation programs.
In 1984 they adopted the present name. They have established a generous grants program, as well as impressive public education events and tour programs. Digital resources (website and apps) add to their visibility and reach out to new generations of neighborhood activists and preservationists.