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NewsSarasota MagazineJune 15, 2026Sarasota County

Sarasota-Manatee Architectural Projects Win 2026 AIA Florida Awards

Several local building and design projects in Sarasota and Manatee counties received recognition from the Florida Association of the American Institute of Architects. The awards highlight excellence in new construction, historic preservation, and sustainable design across the region.

architectureurban planningsarasotamanatee countysustainabilityhistoric preservation
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Why It Matters

These awards recognize the design and development of major local infrastructure and public spaces, including the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport expansion, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and the Sarasota County Terrace Building.

Key Facts

  • The 2026 AIA Florida Design Awards will be presented on July 18 at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee.
  • The Dr. Janet S. Pullen S.T.E.A.M. Center in Bradenton received an Honor Award of Excellence for New Work and a Citation Award in Masonry.
  • Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Phase 1 received an AIA COTE Top Ten Award for being the world's first net-positive energy botanical garden, offsetting 1.9 million pounds of CO2 annually.
  • The Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport terminal expansion received a Citation Award in Renovations and Additions.
  • The Chidsey Library Rehabilitation project converted the historic library into office space for the Bay Park Conservancy.
  • The Sarasota County Terrace Building, which serves as the county administration center, received an award in the preservation category.
  • The Suncoast Humane Society’s new Englewood facility received recognition for its use of architectural masonry.
  • Other recognized projects include the Cocoanut Bayou House, Kurō Sushi, Bay Haven School of Basics Plus, Old Oak Residence, Whitaker Lofts, and the Nathan Benderson Park Indoor Sports Facility.

Who's Mentioned

locationMarie Selby Botanical Gardens“Recipient of the AIA COTE Top Ten Award.”organizationHall Darling Design Studio“Award-winning architecture firm.”organizationFlorida Association of the American Institute of Architects“The organization presenting the 2026 Design Awards.”locationSarasota County Terrace Building“Recipient of a preservation award.”locationSarasota-Bradenton International Airport“Recipient of a Citation Award for terminal expansion.”organizationSweet Sparkman Architects“Award-winning architecture firm.”