Published February 28. 2023 11:49AM
BIONDO + Projects, a Lehigh-Valley based, architect-led development firm, earned an Award of Merit at the American Institute of Architects Pennsylvania Architectural Excellence Design Awards in November.
The AIA Pennsylvania Design Awards celebrate the exemplary design achievements of members and the impact of architecture – regardless of budget, size, style, or type.
After reviewing 120 entries from 59 Pennsylvania architectural firms, the 2022 jury narrowed their final review to 34 finalist entries. From there, they selected 20 projects by 12 firms to receive awards. Among them was BIONDO + Project’s design for House on 5th in Bethlehem, which was honored with a Merit Award. This award is reserved for projects exhibiting distinguished design and exceptional aspects deserving of recognition. BIONDO + Projects was the only Lehigh Valley firm recognized at this year’s ceremony.
Following its completion, House on 5th sold in only four days on the market.
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PHOTOS courtesy Matt Wargo Photography House on 5th's exterior features two main materials – brick and shingle, each of which are common materials used in unconventional ways. BIONDO + Projects has a unique approach to materiality, rooted Biondo's own family history.
House on 5th was a self-initiated exercise by BIONDO + Projects to develop architecture for a non-affluent environment, equally deserving of high-quality design. In contrast to status-driven suburban mini-mansions, this home takes advantage of the economy of a smaller site with an emphasis on quality.
