(ATLANTA, December 1, 2022)—The S/L/A/M Collaborative (SLAM) was recognized by the Atlanta Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA Atlanta) as its 2022 Firm of the Year. We were recognized for accomplishments and contributions to the built environment; contributing exceptional leadership talent to the profession; active involvement in key programs promoting equity in the architecture profession; and for demonstrating an impressive focus on resilient and green design throughout our portfolio of award-winning projects.
“It is an honor to be recognized with this award from our peers and chapter members,” says Principal Sidney Ward, AIA. “We create a culture of integration and innovation that values the distinct talents of each team member who comes together to collaborate with passion, focused on excellence in design and client service.”
SLAM solves complex design problems for knowledge-driven clients, creating exceptional places that inspire and transform. The firm was recognized for its design impact on the built environment with iconic buildings across the country.
As an example of the consideration our design work has on the environment, AIA Atlanta cited our work on the Georgia Southern University Health Professions Academic Center. This award-winning complex responds sensitively to the complex hydrology and ecology of its site, which is wrapped by a south Georgia wetland. The project utilizes the densely wooded site to provide shading for its ample glazing that allows students and staff alike to enjoy their unique surroundings.
In collaboration with Little Sister’s Angel Fund in Amukura, Kenya, the Atlanta Studio has donated design services for new housing and kitchen facilities to replace outdated spaces. The overall project will occupy a 3-acre site about 80 miles east of Amukura in Eldoret. The location is ideally placed next to a school and hospital, and on more fertile and self-sustaining land. After a successful fundraising package—also assisted by SLAM—the project began construction of Phase I: a clean water well.
The Atlanta Studio has also been donating design services to help revitalize the former Yellow Cab warehouse in South Atlanta. The space is being reimagined as an arts community that provides space for civic discourse and champions social justice in the city of Atlanta. SLAM’s commitment has provided documentation of existing conditions; modeling, rendering, and conceptual design; and cost estimates and advisory roles for code and zoning needs.
The firm is also very active in the Atlanta chapter of AIA. Members of the studio serve both the city and state AIA chapters in leadership roles, as well as in the Atlanta Chapter of the Young Architects Forum. Staff have held various board and leadership roles with the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) and served for 15 years on a peer review committee for Kennesaw State University NOMA students. In addition, we hold roles on AIA Georgia’s Equity in Architecture Committee, focusing on student engagement and professional licensure support. By extension, SLAM is above the national average for registered members of the AIA, and an active participant in the AIA2030 Challenge.
The Silver Medal Firm of the Year Award is the highest honor bestowed by AIA Atlanta, and recognizes a firm for overall excellence over multiple years.
