(ORLANDO, Fla., June 24, 2024) – Global design firm DLR Group received five project, people, and firm awards during April’s AIA Orlando Design Awards Gala, including the notable Firm of the Year award. The annual Gala is a Florida design community highlight, bringing leading architects, designers, and allied professionals together. Award recipients are selected by an independent jury panel.

The Firm of the Year award recognizes DLR Group’s outstanding achievement in design, community service, education, and advocacy in the profession. The award continues the firm’s momentum following its 2023 recognition as one of Orlando Business Journal’s Best Places to Work.

Also recognized were three DLR Group projects. The firm’s Orlando studio, which puts DLR Group’s values on display in a creative workplace, won a Merit award. The Gordon Butch Stewart International School of Hospitality and Tourism also won a Merit award, with its striking geometry and massing noted. Finally, the Elkhart Police Firing Range won the People’s Choice Award. The jury commented on the design’s deft balancing of user health, environmental impact, and contextual sensitivity.

Associate and Project Architect Carrie Manes, AIA, LEED AP, was honored with the Fred H. Pryor Young Architect Achievement award. This award recognizes an architect who has been licensed for fewer than 10 years. Carrie has a track record of community and industry leadership, having served on the AIA Orlando board of directors and executive committee, and on The Milk District Main Street design committee co-chair, board of directors, and executive committee.

Principal and Orlando Office Leader Ronok Nichols, AIA, LEED AP, shares the secret of the firm’s success. “These recognitions belong to our 70 engaged employee owners here in Orlando, and our client partners who trust us to elevate the human experience through design.”