The Alice Washburn Awards are named for the distinguished, self-taught Connecticut designer and builder of the 1920’s, whose work is known for her thoughtful, stylistic, and programmatic invention.
Focusing on style, this program acknowledges excellence in traditional house design through the thoughtful adaptation of tradition to address 21st-century needs.
Award categories:
Award winners will be featured in New England Home Magazine.
2026 Registration Opens: February 9, 2026
Early Bird Registration Deadline: February 20, 2026
FINAL Registration & Submission Deadline: March 13, 2026
John W. Priestley 3rd, AIA
Principal
Priestley + Associates Architecture Inc.
Rockport, Maine
David G. Johnson, AIA
Principal
Skaala Architecture, llc
Camden, Maine
Robert Tucker, AIA
Principal
Huestis Tucker Architects
Woodbridge, Connecticut
Do not include any identifying firm information in any part of your submission. This includes file names because they are visible to jurors. Submissions with identifying information will automatically be disqualified.
The submission form will require the following items:
Jurors will take into consideration and acknowledge:
EARLY BIRD PRICING (until February 20th)
REGULAR PRICING (after February 20th)
Questions? Please email communications@aiact.org
Tucked into the northeast corner of an eight-acre estate, this former shed has been thoughtfully transformed into a charming studio retreat. Once a neglected outbuilding used for storage and even a chicken coop, the structure was reimagined rather than demolished. Subtle yet impactful design interventions, including a gracefully curved roofline, decorative brackets, and lattice detailing, evoke the character of a romantic garden cottage. A cupola nods to its past, while new windows frame views of the surrounding landscape. Inside, a simple, open plan supports flexible use as a pottery studio and quiet workspace, now one of the property’s most cherished spaces.
Jury comments: Praised as “a beautiful little thing,” the project was recognized for its thoughtful transformation of an existing structure and seamless integration into the landscape. Jurors highlighted the strength of the site design, the success of the adaptive reuse approach, and the refined exterior detailing, including the wood slat elements and well-scaled cupola.
A once-dilapidated red barn, long a local landmark in this rural northwest hills community, has been carefully restored and reimagined as a space for gathering and recreation. Preserving its iconic profile, the project rebuilt the foundation and incorporated salvaged and reclaimed timber framing. Thoughtful interventions, including exposed tie-rods, create an open interior while maintaining the barn’s character. Original openings now frame views of the surrounding landscape, connecting indoors and out. Additions are minimal, with a porch and fireplace complementing the structure. The result honors the site’s agricultural heritage while adapting the barn for contemporary family life and year-round enjoyment.
Jury comments: Jurors commended the project’s inventive structural approach, wrapping original materials within a code-compliant system while preserving the barn’s character. They praised the simple, clear parti, the use of large sliding openings, and thoughtful details such as the curved retaining wall and the preserved silo footprint.
Jury comments: Jurors praised the project’s contemporary interpretation of classical design, highlighting its refined detailing and thoughtful material use within a compact, well-composed space.
The 1843 Captain Ward Bulkley House in Southport, Connecticut, was thoughtfully rehabilitated and modestly expanded to meet the needs of a growing family while preserving its historic character. Originally a simple saltbox, the home had grown into a sprawling horseshoe layout. Renovation focused on restoring the core, updating key rooms with repaired millwork, plaster finishes, and modern systems, and improving flow with minimal additions—a courtyard-facing porch and breezeway connecting the garage to the cabana. Structural repairs, insulation, and energy-efficient windows were integrated subtly, maintaining the original massing. The result blends historic preservation with contemporary living, honoring the house’s legacy while enhancing functionality and comfort.
Jury comments: Jurors recognized the project for respecting the original house, maintaining its character and massing while thoughtfully navigating historic district constraints.
Jury comments: Jurors praised the project’s restraint and clarity, highlighting the thoughtful front elevation, monochromatic palette, and simple, agrarian character of the garage. The design was recognized for honoring and preserving the original house while integrating new construction.
Jury comments: Jurors praised the project for its elegant front composition, refined proportions, and exceptional interior detailing. They highlighted the subtle 1930s Art Deco influences, curved mantle surrounds, and the careful restraint that keeps the home sophisticated yet understated.
Jury comments: Jurors praised the project for its thoughtful front elevation, effective site use, and water-facing façade that evokes Rowayton’s mercantile waterfront character, noting its well-scaled massing.
Jury comments: Jurors commended the project for its well-proportioned, handsome design, noting thoughtful gestures, detailed rafter tails, and refined exterior detailing.