The 2011 Orchids & Onions Awards Ceremony & Silent Auction was held on Thursday, October 27, 2011 at the Westfield Horton Plaza Event Space and historic Balboa Theater in downtown San Diego. The ceremony was personably and articulately emcee'd by linguist Grant Barrett, Co-host of NPR's "A Way With Words."

Terri Mitchell of Pr1ze provided the fresh, new branding that served as inspiration for the incredible party and ceremony set design by Bells & Whistles. Also complementing the pre-party was a stunning, otherworldy installation of "Gollypods Orbiting" by Jason Xavier Lane and Tend Living, and a VIP oasis we could live in by Hold It Contemporary Home, with art by Alexander Salazar Fine Art. 

Last but not least, let's face it. A party can be as pretty as you please, but if the food and drinks are lacking... well, let's just say Stone Brewing Company Catering was unbelievably awesome. They have also been very generous, long time supporters of Orchids  & Onions, and hosted the beer again this year. Simply said, we love and appreciate Stone! Click here for a complete list of sponsors, and links to their websites.

Now for the Orchids... click on the link for photos and more information about each - and to let us know what you think (agree? disagree?) by leaving a comment.

Grand Orchid: Craft & Commerce

During deliberations for the 2011 Grand Orchid, the jury was taken with one particular project, where they were all in agreement that the space had actually transcended the design. They felt strongly that Craft & Commerce - this accessible, adaptive re-use project in Little Italy, had been carefully designed and masterfully executed to create a truly exceptional experience. Idea-driven, yet basic; it is, as one juror notes, “…an amalgamation of tried and true populist design moves that still manages to maintain its own personal, and innovative, identity.” Another commented, “There are some wonderful things going on here, and some of them are obviously personal which start to unravel a story to how this place was born….” Having doubled in size since it’s opening in August of 2010, it has provided the impetus to stimulate a sleepy corner into a stimulating destination. Craft & Commerce demonstrates how the design dialogue opens minds and doors . . . and blooms. It shines through as a unique and inspirational property and a welcome and daring addition to San Diego's design landscape.

People's Choice Orchid: Fallbrook Library

The majority of the People’s Choice voting public agreed that the Fallbrook Library is a spectacular success, and a wonderful addition to the community. It may have taken over 10 years to come to fruition, but it was well worth the wait. As one fan commented “The new Fallbrook library is just wonderful; and the design celebrates the commitment this community has made to the creation of a cultural hub for learning.” Another noted that “… the project exemplifies how libraries should evolve; from static repositories of books, to dynamic hubs of community, connection, and learning.” Also mentioned repeatedly was the striking architecture, use of natural light, landscaping, incorporation of local artwork and the application of sustainable features - particularly the green roof. The People are clearly smitten: an old library was replaced with something modern and sustainable, ultimately creating a unique signature building that is both peaceful and stimulating to both patrons and passersby. Seamlessly integrating traditional library resources with modern technological amenities, Fallbrook Library celebrates the past, while optimistically embracing the future.

Centre Street Lofts (Architecture)

Described by one juror as "an apartment building that offers its’ inhabitants a true Southern California experience," the Centre Street Lofts in Hillcrest is a triumphant example of urban infill without compromise. A fresh, unique apartment complex where the residents have become a small micro-community, interacting with one another as they access their residences through the internal courtyard, while still maintaining a sense of privacy by connecting internal living spaces with elevated linear decks and patios. Working within a tight budget, the architect/developer incorporated a number of unique personal touches and elevated the detailing of many components, from the hand-crafted formwork for the curved concrete walls to the rotating BBQ grill in the courtyard, this project stands out with its’ playful creativity and thoughtful execution. The movement from the street, to the garage, to the common space, to the unit, is so unique and fun; this project provides the benchmark of what should be the norm for all future residential developments and supports the idea that breaking all the rules, while still complying with them can pay huge dividends in the end.

Pier 32 Marina (Architecture)

Situated at the mouth of the Sweetwater Channel in National City, Pier 32 Marina is only six miles south of downtown San Diego, yet feels like an oasis amid a sea of container ships and industrial warehouses that dot the South Bay. This bold, contemporary, yet warm maritime project embraces the new, but hints at the old in what one jury member called, “dynamic design, engaging angles and incredible sightlines.” Another juror said, “the project’s massing is creative and delicate, yet it really feels anchored and purposeful.” Both the inside and outside are enticing, and the structure serves as a bridge to the bike path and the harbor, appealing to outsiders in a comfortable and approachable way, yet still maintaining a level of sophistication. The jury felt that this project hits all the right tones: use of materials, details, finishes and fenestration; this is clearly a 'maritime' pier; timeless, and stunning.”  Pier 32 Marina succeeds as a pristine, playful and functional structure in an area of San Diego's bay frontage that truly benefits from its’ presence.

San Dieguito River Park Headquarters (Architecture)

San Dieguito River Park Headquarters is a remarkable response to a tragedy of nature. A simple budget, with simple architectural solutions, results in complex relationships between the built environments and natural surroundings. This architecture is filled with purposeful incongruities, yet it somehow accomplishes seamless architectural togetherness. It is nicely restrained and elegant, but also striking with an occasional flourish. There are simple little details such as the setting of the storefront, the ways in which the walls meet the roof and the use of the old foundation as a courtyard that belie the limited budget and results in an architecture that is both proud of itself and comfortable for its users. San Dieguito Park should be proud to have this faceted, white gem as their new headquarters. When added to the landscape restoration, trials and the new pedestrian bridge this entire project serves as a shining and lasting example of how to execute publically financed infrastructure. 

Thomas Jefferson School of Law (Landscape Architecture)

The Landscape Architecture found around and within the Thomas Jefferson School of Law is in pitch perfect harmony with its new East Village campus. Scrupulously designed, the vertical campus is bursting with an extensive variety of highly sculptural, drought tolerant plant species purposefully scattered throughout the exterior spaces on the street level, and thoughtfully placed on multiple upper-floor outdoor terraces. Of particular note to our jury was the 5th floor terrace, home to a thriving, 5’ high, 85’ wide living wall planted in the form of a sunburst, that gradually transforms into a wave. This impressive living art piece sits behind a granite study counter, and ranges in color from gold, bright lime, dark green and purple. The intermingling of plants and sprinkling of color among the steel and glass of the building somehow manage to create a stimulating sanctuary in the heart of downtown. A visitor to the Orchids & Onions website commented that “Outdoor spaces like this in a downtown environment make for an active and interesting place to work, learn, and live.”

David Kreitzer Lake Hodges Bicycle/ Pedestrian Bridge (Landscape Architecture)

This project breaks the boundaries of a defined landscape architecture. While it is easy to appreciate the Lake Hodges Pedestrian Bridge from the highway as you drive 60mph past, its true wonder lies in the experience of crossing it by foot. Upon approach, you are greeted with a vista of pedestrians and cyclists, however as you move across the bridge, subsequently dipping and rising along the way, you lose sight of others and at moments feel a sense of complete privacy with the bridge, and connection with the landscape surrounds. This gentle dipping and rising creates a "symbiotic relationship" between its sweeping design and the plains surrounding it. The jury found the bridge "graceful and sensitive," and was thoroughly impressed that a regional park system can take on something like this and make it so beautiful. One juror observed that it seamlessly blurs the lines between architecture, engineering, landscape architecture and art.

Art Produce (Sustainability)

Art Produce, as a creative space, is a dynamic work-in-progress that is constantly evolving. The most recent phase of development has effectively harnessed an underutilized outdoor area to create an engaging communal space in an urban environment, thus achieving what the jury described as a type of “organic sustainability,” serving to enhance the neighborhood. A private, non-descript parking lot has been transformed into a community gathering space that includes an edible garden, urban orchard, and an outdoor classroom that offers film screenings, performances, workshops, cooking classes, a farmers food exchange and other community events. As the jury noted, “With regards to sustainable design, we have moved beyond LEED® ratings; any decent building should automatically be LEED® Gold. However, a Sustainability Orchid should be reserved only for those projects that actually take the idea someplace new.” Art Produce does just that in a simple yet powerful way; the project creates a practical template for how to successfully activate a simple urban space in a way that benefits the entire community.

Banker's Hill Bar & Restaurant (Interior Transformation)

What makes this project relevant and unique is the story about the process and design behind the transformation that we see today. Banker’s Hill is the beautiful result of the creative collaboration of an innovative designer and an open-minded owner, successfully working together to create a compelling restaurant experience within a tight budget. As one juror noted the restaurant, “is remarkable for its nimble response to budget.” The eclectic, yet tasteful use of both rustic & industrial materials is very well done. The jury appreciated the honesty in the use of materials, resulting in a space that is comfortable and inspired by the food. By mixing the classic simplicity of wood, brick, and steel design elements with a modern and vibrant ‘living wall’ elevates the dining experience for the guests, making them feel part of the process and part of the culinary transformation, as they transition from the city street into this unique space. As one juror noted, Banker’s Hill Restaurant’s greatest merit is the fact that its simple elegance exemplifies the idea of “the transformation from the ugly duckling to the beautiful swan. The result is a building that is approachable and humane and that is the very definition of sustainable design. 

Co-Merge (Adaptive Reuse)

Surrounded by nondescript commercial office buildings, Co-Merge’s sculptural steel fence and bright green planters create a compelling case for the public to take notice; as one commenter noted, The design team took a horrible building and utilizing space, light and color transformed it into something special.  The interior spaces are open and engaging, the materials are interesting and the sensitive incorporation of landscape in an urban context is extraordinary. As one juror noted, “We've seen shared work environments before; we've seen remodeled defunct buildings painted with new life. What is special about this project is that there was a commitment by the entire team to think outside the box and come together to develop the next generation of work environments. The Co-Merge project is impressive both in concept and physical execution and is a useful model of sustainability, not simply as an adaptive re-use, but as a way to aggregate people and share resources without needing new office buildings and infrastructure.  Moreover, the quality of the actual physical space created here is one that encourages use.

Deni & Jeff Jacobs Challenged Athlete's Center (Adaptive Reuse)

Much like the dynamic athletes the space hosts and represents, this Deni & Jeff Jacobs Challenged Athlete’s Center shines in its humble environment; transcending its original intent to become both an inspiration to those who work and visit the building, as well as an enhancement to its surroundings. Situated in a commercial park in Mira Mesa, this structure was originally one of the many nondescript cookie-cutter office buildings it is currently surrounded by, and now, the contrast is striking. As one juror noted, “It’s like the hot girl moved in next door!” Transforming a mundane, mirrored office building into an iconic structure, the Challenges Athletes Center changed the nature of the entire office park. The building features an innovative façade and establishes a bold identity, while simultaneously allowing natural light to softly pepper the interior spaces. Internally, the weaving of spaces, undefined at times, forces interaction yet playfully overlaps, allowing flexibility of uses according to the changing needs of the facility, whether it is for sports, recreation or fundraising. This remarkable exterior transformation allows the building to stand out and creates a fresh identity.

Snowflake Bakery Building (Historic Recognition)

Although it was nominated for a Historic Preservation Orchid, the Jury agreed that this award for recognition is less about the building and more about how the storefront improvements will help to revitalize the neighborhood and activate the sidewalk. This project also recalls the buildings of old with regards to the artisan painters, a dying breed of artists who painstakingly hand-painted the brick and signage to match the original black color. These true craftsmen, mostly in their late 50’s and 60’s, did an excellent job in restoring one of San Diego’s oldest buildings, the Snowflake Baking Co., to its’ former glory. Taking note of the pictures of the building’s condition prior to this work, the jury concluded that the improvements were compelling.  These renovations were thoughtfully carried out by the Owner, with careful attention paid to the details, combined with the collaborative passion of the artisan painters. The jury believes that the project should be recognized for these considerate and well-executed efforts.

Sustainable North Park Main Street (Planning Policies)

"Vested…Passionate…Steadfast”…these are just a few words that describe the commitment and energy of the team behind this sustainable planning policy.  Sustainable North Park Main Street involves building owners, business operators, and the community in creating a lasting framework for economic prosperity, community action, and an improved urban environment through historic preservation and sustainable planning. The implementation plan includes viable solutions for the community to implement water conservation strategies, energy generation and management strategies, recycled material and waste management, as well as historic building preservation.  The Jury was impressed with the thoroughness of this implementation plan, how all aspects were considered: political, architectural and social, as well as the synergy of the team, which was comprised of recent architecture graduates, established architects, landscape architects and planners.  As one of the Jurors noted, “North Park Main Street has such a drive and dedication to improving the community, that piece by piece, step by step, they are actually doing it!”

Thomas Jefferson School of Law (Programming & Planning)

The Thomas Jefferson School of Law is a vibrant addition to the East Village Community that engages the public and has successfully activated the surrounding downtown neighborhood. It was clear to the jury that that the entire design process was Operations-based and that a mindful decision had been made by the school to relocate to this area of downtown. The jury also agreed that the project was a collaborative team effort of the best sort, with the owner and the design team clearly laying out their goals in advance. But more important to the jury than merely the building itself is how the school took into account and incorporated the larger community; this is not just about the Law School but the entire East Village: the existing fabric, the diverse community and the synergy of the students and their extraordinary energy. The jury particularly liked the transparency of the interior of the building from the outside - seeing people engaged on the street level and generating energy from the inside out. The decision to conceive the campus as an urban infill project instead of moving to the suburbs is commendable. All in all, the jury concluded that, “It’s an important message to similar higher education institutions to think about the larger community. It is a different way of thinking of what the parameters of an educational facility are or should be.” 

Meshuggah Shack (Community Intervention)

Meshuggah Shack is a neighborhood intervention that charmed the locals and one that charmed the jury, as well. Take a dead corner, a parking lot and what used to be a drive-up ATM. Add one part delicious coffee, one part spirited owner-developer, toss in some street furniture, dog biscuits and water bowls, hula-hoops and a bubble machine and up with, as one Mission Hills blogger wrote, “a lively and dynamic, even magnetic espresso bar that also offers a variety of teas, noshes, and smiles.”  Who woulda’ thunk? A corner that has been dead for decades has been brought to life, and an improbable business venture is now set to spread to other neighborhoods in the city. Meshuggah Shack has united a fractured assemblage of single family homes, condos, apartments, restaurants and service businesses by creating a destination, a purpose and a locale for adjacent residents and businesses to coalesce into the very sort of critical mass that results in that most elusive of architectural and urban goals: a neighborhood.