A celebration of the nation?s diverse architecture, from lake homes to New York?s courtscraper Earlier today, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) bestowed its 2017 Housing Awards, celebrating the work of architects from around the country. Showcasing numerous perspectives on the meaning of home today, the winning projects, which vary widely in style, site, and objective, make a case for the value of good design, whether it?s for a next-generation green home in Boston or a sleek reimagining of affordable housing in Los Angeles.
Established to ?recognize the best in housing design and promote the importance of good housing as a necessity of life,? this snapshot of contemporary American architecture, now in its 17th year, highlights many important trends, including green building and accessible, universal design, all while showing that great architecture doesn?t always require a massive budget.
Andrew Pogue

Andrew Pogue

Blue Lake Retreat (Lake Marble Falls, Texas: Lake|Flato Architects)
This modern take on a lake house should touch off plenty of cabin envy. The narrow structure, topped with a dramatic top floor inching above the tree line, gives its owners a nearly 180-degree vista of Blue Lake. The cantilevered deck emphasizes the dreamy views of the water, while a bridge on the opposite side of the home as well as smaller openings in the façade anchor the house to the adjoining hillside.

Timothy Hur...