Seattle buildings take home national design honors

Seattle achieved significant recognition in the 2025 national architecture awards, affirming its commitment to innovative and sustainable design. The American Institute of Architects honored Colman Dock, calling it a premier example of contemporary civic architecture. The Seattle Ferry Terminal, crafted by NBBJ, was praised for integrating public space with tribal recognition and multimodal infrastructure. Three local projects made the AIA's COTE Top Ten list for outstanding sustainable design. The Bush School New Upper School, recognized as the first Salmon Safe school nationwide, also stands as the largest Passive House-certified campus in the Western U.

S. Meanwhile, the Wagner Education Center at the Center for Wooden Boats features manually adjustable ventilation to enhance airflow. Founders Hall at the University of Washington is noted for being the institution's first mass timber building, promoting low-carbon design. Additionally, the Center for Behavioral Health and Learning at UW Medicine received an AIA Healthcare Design Award for its contributions to healthcare architecture.