Columbus architectural firm Moody Nolan receives top architecture award

The Columbus architectural firm Moody Nolan has received the 2021 Architecture Firm Award from the American Institute of Architects, the highest award the trade association gives to a practice.

The award, given to one firm a year since 1962, recognizes companies that have consistently produced distinguished architecture for at least 10 years.

Moody Nolan is the first African American and first Ohio firm to win the award, which has been given to a host of blue-chip practices including Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, I.M. Pei & Partners and Cesar Pelli & Associates. 

Founded in 1983 by Curt Moody and engineer Howard E. Nolan, Moody Nolan has grown to become the nation's largest African American-owned-and-operated architectural firm. Based in Columbus with offices in 11 cities, the firm now employs 230.

"This (award) is for us, for everyone that has supported our vision, for our staff that continuously produces exceptional work," wrote Curt Moody in celebration of the award. "And most importantly, for other minority-owned businesses to know that you too can rise to the top." 

The firm has long focused on diversity and reflecting communities it serves. Women make up 42% of its staff, and 32% of staff identify as minorities. 

In announcing the award, the AIA noted Moody Nolan's "long history of serving clients with its trademark navigation of cultural sensitivities and keen understanding of the impact its work has on individuals and communities."

Among the firm's multiple awards are the National Organization of Minority Architects’ (NOMA) President’s Exemplary Service Award in 2008.

“Curt Moody has been a mentor and role model to so many in the NOMA community that the full impact of his contributions will be felt for generations to come," wrote NOMA member Kimberly Dowdell in a letter supporting Moody Nolan’s nomination.

"The legacy of Moody Nolan is something for all firms to aspire to."

Moody Nolan's practice has grown to include expertise across a wide range of building types, including health care, education, housing, sports facilities, hospitality and civic. Its local buildings include Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium and the Ohio Union at Ohio State University, the Martin Luther King library branch, the AC Hotel by Marriott at Bridge Park and the Bishop James A. Griffin Student Center at Ohio Dominican University.

“Moody Nolan’s buildings are often the transformational centers of activity at the colleges and universities that they serve,” architect William J. Stanley III wrote in support of the firm’s nomination. “Their projects become the signature buildings that set the standard for others to follow. Numerous campuses have been enhanced by their thoughtful, cutting-edge solutions."

A year ago, Curt Moody announced that he was stepping down as CEO and his son, Jonathan, would replace him. Curt Moody has remained as chairman.

jweiker@dispatch.com

@JimWeiker