Sacramento, Calif. — Golden 1 Center, the world’s most technologically advanced and sustainable arena, continues to receive high praise from the global design community. Recently, the world-class entertainment and sports venue designed by AECOM was selected to receive the prestigious 2017 American Architecture Award for the best new buildings designed and constructed by American architects.
In its 23rd year, The American Architecture Awards were announced by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies—organizers of this annual program for design excellence and for the best and finest contributions to innovative contemporary architecture. The American Architecture Awards are the nation’s highest public awards given by a non-commercial, non-trade affiliated, public arts, culture and educational institution.
“Creating an iconic space to showcase Sacramento was Owner and Chairman Vivek Ranadive’s vision from the start of the project,” said Kings President Chris Granger. “Golden 1 Center has become a model of design and innovation, inspiring creative thought about public spaces and creating a communal fireplace for Sacramento to come together and celebrate.”
Global design and infrastructure leader AECOM served as the lead architect and designer of Golden 1 Center. The integrated design—bringing together urbanism, architecture, sports and sustainability—has redefined the standard for an urban sports venue. The first LEED Platinum arena in the world, the building reflects the values of the community it serves and has triggered a resurgence in downtown Sacramento.
“Golden 1 Center was designed for fans, city and planet,” said Rob Rothblatt, lead designer, AECOM. “Everything about it speaks to the community, culture and values of the region, from the Sierra-inspired façade to the giant aircraft doors and indoor-outdoor lifestyle, to the open plaza, local art, green walls and unprecedented sustainability.”
“The selected buildings and urban planning projects uniquely and sensitively reconcile the principles underlying architectural design with the rapid technological advancements and the modernization of our society today,” said Christian Narkiewicz-Laine, Museum President of The Chicago Athenaeum. “This year, there was a considerable emphasis on restoration, renovation, and adaptive re-use as the Green Revolution continues to impact cities and the buildings in which we live, work, pray, and become educated and culturally refined.”
