University of Alaska Museum of the North, Hammel, Green and Abrahamson Inc.

This building has been awarded AIA Minnesota Announces 2006 Honor. Three jurors were very impressed by the strong abstract language of this project. One juror commented he would like to have known more about the process, inspiration, and changes during the project's development. The architect showed respect for the building's context that is not trying to be derivative, nostalgic, or vernacular. Instead, noted a juror, the structure has its own language... via AIA

"I wanted to capture the spirit but in an abstract way that allows people their own interpretation. This is not an intellectual process. It's strictly working with form." said Soranno - project architect

Creating dramatic architecture can be challenging in an icy climate where people prioritize function over flamboyance and where the natural environment can satisfy their desire for beauty. The state of Alaska has breathtaking vistas of mountains, snow flats, and the dancing aurora borealis, but its urban landscapes have tended to remain resilient and simple... more in architectureweek

Hammel, Green and Abrahamson Inc.
University of Alaska Museum of the North
Fairbanks

Photo © Nic Lehoux Photography