Eleanor/Jackie_Awards Open Space SM Library Hyrbids


2008 Green Building Award Winners

Single-Family Residence Winner:
TAIJI House
119 Laurel Avenue, Menlo Park
Owner: Scott and Jackie Wood
Builder: Drew Maran Construction
Architect: Osborne Architects
A wonderful example of how attractive a functional green home can be. The responsiveness to the site, the consideration of the relationship between the interior and exterior spaces, and the aggressive use of sustainable and recycled materials set this project apart.

Honorable Mention:
Bier Residence
934 Paloma Avenue, Burlingame
Owner: Aline Bier
Builder: Spectrum Development
Architect: Jack Matthews Architects
A truly innovative reuse of an existing house. The extensive amount of material recycled from the previous house, the respectful approach to the site, and the high use of new green materials create a remarkable project.

Commercial Winner:
Nueva School Hillside Learning Complex
6565 Skyline Boulevard, Hillsborough
Owner/CEO: Shirley Doxtad, Business Manager
Builder: Herrero Contractors, Inc.
Architect: Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects
The commitment of the entire team to a sustainable building is apparent in every aspect of this project. The owner, the design team, the administration and the students all have a role not only in building a green building but also – and perhaps more importantly – in operating a green building. The project works on all levels, from the energy efficiency of natural ventilation to the use of the existing trees on the site for amenities such as benches. It sets a high standard for the aspirations of other buildings in the county.

Honorable Mention:
Villa Montgomery
1540 El Camino Real, Redwood City
Owner/CEO: Jeff Oberdorfer, Executive Director
Builder: Branagh Construction
Architect: Fisher Friedman, FAIA
The location of the project on a transit route, the multi-story solution for a reduced footprint, and the use of a brownfield site are all positive features of this project. Additionally the educational aspect of programs implemented at the facility, such as green housekeeping and communications about the choices and materials used in the design, is admirable.

Honorable Mention:
San Mateo County Youth Services Center
222 Paul Scannell Drive, San Mateo
Owner: County of San Mateo, Capital Projects Manager, James Sowerbrower
Builder: Turner Construction Company
Architect: KMD Architects
The layout of the plan really respects the young people’s needs for as much normalcy as possible. The sensitive site plan allows for an educational atmosphere as opposed to an institutional feel, and the material choice and color allow for joy. The San Mateo Youth Center is a good example of executing sustainable goals in a public project.


Sustainable San Mateo County, RecycleWorks, and the San Mateo County Chapter of the American Institute of Architects sponsor the Green Building Award to support sustainable design in architecture and to recognize the designers, builders, and owners of green buildings in San Mateo County.The Green Building Award is open to any building constructed within the last five (5) years and currently standing in San Mateo County. Additions and remodels are considered for the award, as reusing a building conserves resources and is definitely a green approach to construction.The Green Building Award winner is selected by an independent panel of recognized professionals in the disciplines of green and sustainable construction. The award is presented at a celebration dinner as part of the annual Sustainable San Mateo County Awards Program.

Award Criteria

The criteria are based on the Principles of Sustainable Design, as described by Jason F. McLennan in his recent book, The Philosophy of Sustainable Design.

The application package will include: the application, a visual representation no larger than 8.5 x 11 inches, a San Mateo Countywide Sustainable Buildings Checklist on the project with any additional commentary to explicate important items, and a brief description on how the project followed each of the six principles (not greater than two pages). You must also provide evidence of owner approval of award submittal.

For more information, visit www.recycleworks.org