Jury Comments: Although a difficult challenge to successfully integrate a large program into a central urban location, The Podium does it with grace as it fronts the large athletic volume with a smaller public facing mass that skillfully addresses the urban fabric in its façade as well as its parti. The central spine that doubles as a venue space cleverly weaves the building’s internal circulation with that of a prominent public pedestrian circulation. At the north end, a large window facing the street allows for a peak into the building’s interior activities while the expansive glazing and deep overhang of the south porch provides a community space overlooking the park, river and city beyond. This mass is striking in color to act as a landmark but also aptly engages with the urban fabric on all sides.

This project does an amazing job of drawing value from a unique and remarkable site. The use of the topography and how circulation paths and placement of program were handled enhance the experience and connect those visiting to the surroundings both visually and physically. The detailing and quality of construction are also noteworthy.