Southern California architecture firm AO earned four Grand Awards and 24 Merit Awards at the 63^rd annual Gold Nugget Awards. The recognition marks a record for the firm and extends its relationship with the program, which began in 1981.

The PCBC Gold Nugget Awards recognize projects that advance architecture, planning, and development. This year, judges selected the winners from about 800 entries. AO’s 28 awards account for about 8 percent of the 335 Grand and Merit Awards presented.

“Twenty-four awards across 16 categories is a tremendous honor,” said RC Alley, managing partner at AO. “These awards recognize great design, but what they really represent are the relationships behind every development.”

Winning projects

Four AO projects received Grand Awards: Bolsa Pacific, Opus, Luminary, and Independence at the Preserve.

Bolsa Pacific in Westminster, Calif., won Best Community Land Plan. AO designed and master planned the 33.7 ha (83.3-acre) redevelopment for Shopoff Realty Investments. The former Westminster Mall site will include housing, open space, and a 20,438-m² (220,000-sf) retail center. The project also earned two Merit Awards.

Opus in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., won Best On-the-Boards Community. AO and Pacific Communities planned the 5.2 ha (13-acre) site along Route 66 as a residential community with parks and trail connections. It also earned a Merit Award.

Luminary in Chula Vista, Calif., won Best Multifamily Housing Community (30–60 dwelling units per acre). Developed by HomeFed Corporation, the project uses courtyards, promenades, and shared amenities to support pedestrian activity.

Independence at the Preserve in Chino, Calif., won Best Built-for-Rent Community Plan. AO worked with Lewis on the latest phase of the Preserve at Chino, designing townhomes with a retail hub and community amenities.