VIMS Wachapreague Facility earns Statewide Architectural Recognition

The Virginia Institute of Marine Science’s Eastern Shore Laboratory complex in Wachapreague has received an Honorable Mention for Contextual Design from the American Institute of Architects Virginia Chapter (AIA Virginia).

The award recognizes the facility’s success in blending world-class marine research infrastructure with the small-town coastal character of the Eastern Shore. Designed by VIA design architects of Norfolk, the project was commended for its contextual integration and innovative coastal resilience measures.

According to VIA, the Wachapreague complex was specifically noted for honoring the region’s maritime heritage while advancing sustainable and resilient design practices. The facility employs five distinct flood-proofing strategies to protect against coastal flooding—making it a model for future waterfront development in vulnerable coastal communities.

From a field of 125 entries, only 24 were selected by the jury for recognition. These few projects stood above the rest and were particularly notable. Awards of Merit are presented to those projects worthy of recognition and an Award of Honor is reserved for those projects deemed by the jury to be truly exceptional. Consideration is given to aesthetics, social impact, innovation, context, performance, and stewardship of the natural environment — with particular emphasis on the Framework for Design Excellence.