HDR’s Denver Architecture Studio Honored as AIA Colorado 2026 Firm of the Year
The Colorado Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) awarded HDR’s Denver architecture studio with the 2026 Firm of the Year Award at its annual AIA Colorado Design + Honor Awards Celebration, which honors the outstanding work of members and their firms, reinforces the value of great architecture and highlights member contributions to positive change.
Recognizing outstanding achievements of a firm that has produced notable architecture for at least a decade, the award is given to firms that have an outstanding portfolio of work due to their collaborative environments. Award-winning firms also set an example both in design and leadership in Colorado, exhibit a culture that embraces diversity and are widely known for the quality of their work, innovative technologies and progressive methodologies to achieve resilient and sustainable design goals.
HDR was recognized by the jury for combining an exceptional body of work with meaningful leadership in Colorado’s architecture community, bringing broad interdisciplinary expertise to projects that support healthcare, research, education, transportation, civic life and other important community needs. The firm’s employee-owned model, commitment to sustainable design, investment in emerging professionals, support for AIA participation and emphasis on mentorship and inclusive collaboration were noted as demonstrating how a large firm can remain deeply connected to its people and local communities.
“This recognition is especially meaningful because it celebrates more than our projects; it honors a culture rooted in curiosity, service, diversity of thought, mutual respect, and a genuine commitment to people,” said Julianne Scherer, Central region civic architecture director based in Denver. “This award reflects the collective efforts of those who bring that culture to life every day through design, collaboration, and meaningful engagement with the clients and communities we serve.”
By pairing global resources with local knowledge, design excellence, professional development and community engagement, HDR sets a strong example for architecture firms throughout the state. Colorado-based projects in the studio’s portfolio include the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NRL) in Golden, Intermountain Health Lutheran Hospital in Wheat Ridge, and the Swansea Recreation Center Renovation and Natatorium Addition in Denver.
