Las Vegas Mayor’s Urban Design Awards Celebrate City’s Commitment to Sustainability
The city of Las Vegas recently celebrated outstanding urban design achievements through the Mayor’s Urban Design Awards (MUDA). Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman presented the prestigious awards during the opening of the 2024 Mayor’s Symposium on Urban Design at the Historic Fifth Street School. The event showcased projects that not only exemplify exceptional design but also contribute to the city’s commitment to sustainability and livability.
Recognizing Excellence in Urban Design
This year’s MUDA winners represent a diverse range of categories, each highlighting the importance of innovative and thoughtful design in shaping the urban landscape. From historic preservation to adaptive reuse, public art, and public places, the winners have demonstrated a deep understanding of the city’s unique character and the importance of creating spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
The Winners and Their Impact
In the category of Buildings and Environment, the Beverly Theater, located at 515 S. Sixth St. and designed by Carpenter Seller Del Gatto Architects, took home the award. This project not only showcases exceptional architectural design but also incorporates sustainable features that minimize its environmental impact, setting a new standard for future developments in the city.
The Carousel Bar, designed by The Plaza Hotel Design Team and located at 1 S. Main St., was recognized for its outstanding work in Historic Preservation & Adaptive Reuse. By breathing new life into a historic building, the Carousel Bar has preserved a piece of the city’s heritage while creating a vibrant and dynamic space for the community to enjoy.
Another winner in the category of Historic Preservation was the Golden Steer restaurant, designed by Carpenter Seller Del Gatto Architects and located at 308 W. Sahara Ave. This project not only celebrates the city’s past but also demonstrates how historic buildings can be repurposed in innovative ways to meet the needs of a modern city.
In the Adaptive Reuse category, the Bent Inn & Pub, designed by SPARC Design and located at 1100 E. Ogden Ave, was recognized for its creative approach to transforming an existing space into a new destination that adds value to the neighborhood. By repurposing an old building, the Bent Inn & Pub has breathed new life into the area while preserving its unique character.
The Importance of Public Art and Places
Public art plays a crucial role in shaping the identity of a city and creating a sense of community. This year’s winner in the Public Art category, “We, Westside,” a mural located at 500 Jefferson Ave. and created by Iandry Randriamandroso, celebrates the cultural richness and diversity of the Westside neighborhood. The mural serves as a visual representation of the community’s history and heritage, inviting residents and visitors to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.
Public spaces are essential for fostering social interaction, community engagement, and overall well-being. The Obodo Urban Farm, located at 1300 C St. and designed by The Obodo Collective, was recognized for its innovative approach to creating a sustainable and inclusive public space that promotes urban agriculture and community involvement. The farm not only provides fresh produce to local residents but also serves as a gathering place for events, workshops, and educational programs that enrich the community.
Celebrating Excellence in Urban Design
The Mayor’s Urban Design Awards serve as a platform to celebrate the creativity, innovation, and dedication of designers, architects, and artists who are shaping the future of Las Vegas. By honoring projects that prioritize sustainability, livability, and community engagement, the awards highlight the importance of thoughtful and inclusive design in creating a city that is vibrant, resilient, and welcoming to all.
As Las Vegas continues to evolve and grow, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the individuals and organizations that are leading the way in creating spaces that enhance the quality of life for everyone. The Mayor’s Urban Design Awards not only acknowledge the achievements of the winners but also inspire others to push the boundaries of design and innovation in the quest to build a more sustainable and equitable city for future generations.