The Florida Foundation for Architecture and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Academy of Architecture for Health recently announced the winners of their 2010 design competition for emerging professionals. Emerging professionals are defined as Architecture Students in the Florida Schools of Architecture, Associate AIA Members, and Architects licensed less than 10 years.

Architect Tom Wannen, AIA, of HuntonBrady Architects in Orlando and his wife, Interior Designer Mandy Wannen, IIDA, LEED AP, of Ramski & Company in Orlando teamed to win first place in the statewide competition. The Wannens’ clinic focuses on the concept of nature’s engagement with a patient’s positive sense of well being. Natural daylight, exterior views, native materials, and a healing garden were integrated in the design to achieve this goal.

The Florida Foundation for Architecture is embarking on a program to address the issue of access to healthcare through the design of a clinical facility for the treatment of medical, dental, and behavioral needs of homeless individuals and families throughout the state. Solutions were sought that will address the design parameters of flexibility, functionality, sustainability, and the creation of a healing environment for patients and staff within the context of Florida communities.

“Your interest, competency, and the clarity of your design proposed underpins the essence of architecture’s role in leading positive social change”, William Hercules, Associate Principal, Perkins + Will.