The Herbert H. and Barbara C. Dow Center for Visual Arts was one of 12 buildings honored by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in Michigan at an award program held on May 7 in Detroit. Seventy-one projects were entered in the competition and they were judged by a panel of seven architects from across the United States. The AIA describes the event as a way to honor and publicize examples of good design and recognize those who make significant contributions to the built environment.
The 36,000 square foot building was designed by Cornerstone Architects and houses Interlochen’s visual arts studios, classrooms and galleries. The $7.5 million project is named after late Interlochen trustees and the project's primary donors, Herbert H. and Barbara C. Dow.
In their comments, the jury wrote: “This is a perfect visual arts space with its airy and light filled rooms. There is a careful use of natural materials within the structure, a restraint throughout the design, and a respect of the surrounding environment as the most important design material.”
