Two NBBJ Projects Receive Nation’s Premier AIA Design Awards
For improving human well-being, inspiring innovation and elevating sustainability in the built environment, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) recognizes two NBBJ projects with top National Design Awards in the United States. These accolades are highly competitive—less than 3% of all entries are awarded.
The Lower School campus of Westmark School in Encino, California, receives the AIA National Education Facility Design Award, while the UCSF Pediatric Stad Center in San Francisco, California, is recognized with the AIA National Healthcare Design Award. You can read more below about each project.
These achievements further lift NBBJ’s position as a global leader of design excellence and reinforce an expanding list of accolades, including being the only architecture firm named a Fast Company “Most Innovative Company” for the 6th time in 2026 and TIME100 Most Influential Company of 2025.
Lower School Campus of Westmark School: AIA National Education Facility Design Award
One in five children have learning differences, yet most schools are not designed with neurodiversity in mind. Created for students with language-based learning differences, the Lower School campus of Westmark School provides an inclusive, nature-infused environment that aligns architecture with a highly specialized educational model.
Organized around a grand California sycamore tree and designed to be net zero, the campus features daylight-filled classrooms, indoor-outdoor learning environments and a sensory-rich landscape that supports movement, choice and well-being. Natural materials, including mass timber, foster comfort and connection while helping students thrive.
UCSF Pediatric Stad Center: AIA National Healthcare Design Award
The UCSF Pediatric Stad Center brings together pain management, palliative care and integrative therapies in one of the nation’s most comprehensive pediatric programs. Its new home unites three critical centers under one roof, creating a seamless experience for patients and families.
Inspired by the natural beauty of the San Francisco Bay Area, the clinic is designed as a “Healing Device” that uses color, daylight, outdoor views and interactive experiences to support the healing journey. A fluid, nature-inspired environment transforms traditional waiting spaces into places for play, exploration and connection, engaging children and families through layered analog, digital, graphic and physical experiences.
