Moody Nolan Wins AIA Chicago’s 2024 Firm Award
Extended story available at AIA Chicago
July 16, 2024, CHICAGO – The Chicago office of Moody Nolan, a leading national architectural firm deeply rooted in the city, has been named the 2024 recipient of the prestigious AIA Chicago Firm Award. This distinguished honor recognizes the firm’s outstanding achievements in design, commitment to sustainability and equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) practices, and dedication to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
“From its creation as a firm, Moody Nolan’s dedication to a client-centric design process, design excellence, EDI, sustainability and and community engagement positions them as a leader in Chicago’s architectural community” said AIA Chicago’s Executive Director Jen Masengarb, AIA. “As the nation’s largest African American-owned and operated design firm, the AIA Chicago Firm Award for their local office is a well-deserved recognition of their ongoing commitment to shaping both a better future through impactful design and a more equitable profession.”
Moody Nolan has made a lasting impact on Chicago’s architectural landscape since its arrival in 2010. Their design philosophy is rooted in empathetic listening and intentional collaboration to create spaces that not only function well but are also deeply shaped by the users. They prioritize understanding people’s needs and the cultural, historical, and environmental context of each project. The firm’s focus on social equity is evident in their work across Chicago’s South and West Sides, where they address the lasting effects of disinvestment and discriminatory policies. Their projects focus on improving access to housing, healthcare, education, and overall community well-being.
The firm’s notable work includes:
The Home Court, an Athletic and Programs Facility at the Obama Presidential Center, a 45,000 square-foot community center with a state-of-the-art gymnasium and space for recreation and community programming.
Friend Health in Woodlawn, a 43,000 square-foot one-stop comprehensive care center breathing new life into an underutilized space.
The Black House at Northwestern University, an 8,900 square-foot home on the campus of Northwestern University for the social, political, and intellectual growth of students.
“This firm showcases true diversity, representation, and widespread community involvement starting with leadership.” the jury noted. “Their work is substantial and shows a tremendous, positive impact on the local Chicago community.”
Moody Nolan fosters a collaborative work environment that prioritizes in-person interaction. They leverage technology to enhance communication but believe that hands-on collaboration is essential for enriching their office culture and ensuring the success of their projects. Staff members are actively involved in professional and civic organizations, leading by example through their advocacy efforts and promoting the value of architects and architecture to the public.
The firm is a committed signatory to the AIA 2030 Commitment – a national voluntary initiative promoting the design of carbon neutral buildings by 2030 – and has a comprehensive Sustainability Action Plan. They prioritize minimizing their environmental footprint and creating high-performance buildings that are responsive to people and place. They have written policies and ongoing initiatives to create a diverse and inclusive workplace, and their staff reflects a broad range of lived experiences, actively participating in dialogues and training to foster empathy and understanding throughout the studios.
“It’s a privilege to apply our craft and serve our communities, helping to facilitate the transformation of Chicago’s architectural landscape,” said Renauld Deandre Mitchell, FAIA, a Chicago native and Founding Partner of the Chicago studio. “We are grateful to AIA Chicago, our clients, and partners for their invaluable support as part of this recognition.”