William Maclay Architects & Planners (WMAP) won an Honor Award in the 2009 Vermont Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Open Space Competition for their design work on the Pyralisk Arts Park project in Montpelier, Vermont. Governor Jim Douglas presented the award to designer Ward Joyce and firm president William Maclay at the annual VT ASLA awards meeting held at the State Capitol on February 17.
We are honored to receive this design award, said Ward Joyce of WMAP. It highlights the value of creative design for downtown green spaces, especially along our riverfront.
The Pyralisk Arts Park was designed for a 1.3-acre site along the Winooski River in downtown Montpelier, the final undeveloped property along the river on Stone Cutters Way. The site is currently occupied by a large metal structure the sole remnant of its rail yard history. The public park was designed to fulfill the City s vision for a riverside green space and would evolve over time to enrich the cultural fabric of Central Vermont.
Our firm s mission is to help our clients see the possibilities of great design, said WMAP president William Maclay, AIA, LEED® AP. We strive to develop spaces that are both beautiful and dynamic and can contribute to the quality of life in our communities.
The Vermont Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects is one of 48 state and regional chapters of the ASLA, the national professional association representing landscape architects. With more than 18,000 members nationwide, ASLA promotes the landscape architecture profession and advances the practice through advocacy, education, communication, and fellowship.
Founded in 1982, William Maclay Architects & Planners is a Vermont-based architectural firm specializing in innovative, sustainable design for individuals, businesses and organizations seeking to create vibrant places for life, work and play. Firm founder and president, William Maclay, has worked in sustainable design since 1971, bringing his lifelong passion for the environment into his work through the design and creation of beautiful, sustainable buildings. Through its team of LEED-accredited professionals, WMAP offers a full-range of architectural services for all phases of residential, commercial and institutional projects. Recent projects include master planning and design for the expanded green campus of wind manufacturer NRG Systems in Hinesburg (VT), the net zero energy design and construction of the Putney (VT) School Field House and the interior design and renovation for Seventh Generation s Burlington (VT) headquarters. For more information, visit www.wmap-aia.com.
CAPTION: The architectural design of the Pyralisk Arts Park features a covered walkway around a sloped-lawn amphitheater and climbable sculptures garden. The green space (at right) is designed for hosting community events.
IMAGE CREDIT: Rendering by William Maclay Architects & Planners