Dynamic Set of Architectural Names Announced as AIA California’s 2025 California Award Recipients

Recipients span a broad swath of contributions. //for immediate release Tibby Rothman, Hon. AIA|LA Communications Director, AIA California For images and more information contact: trothman@aiacalifornia.org (April 8, 2025. Sacramento, California) Three acclaimed architectural names who encompass the elevation of design excellence, the actualization of core values, and rigorous commitment to the expansion of the capabilities of the field, were announced as the recipients of the prestigious California Awards, by AIA California today. This year’s Lifetime Achievement recipients are Steven Ehrlich, FAIA, and Lorcan O’Herlihy, FAIA, two individual exceptional architects, founders of their own practices, with differing contributions, but each with a lifetime of influential achievements. The 2025 Firm is Studio Gang, a practice that makes true its own phrase: “actionable idealism.” “We will see the achievements of each 2025 California Awards recipient influence design, practice, community, for generations,” said AIA California President, Carina Mills, AIA. “The AIA California Board of Directors, which bestows these awards, is humbled to have the work of Steven Ehrlich, FAIA, Lorcan O’Herlihy, FAIA, and Studio Gang, in its midst.” For more on each individual recipient, scroll down. //lifetime achievement award Steven Ehrlich, FAIA Lifetime Achievement Award : Steven Ehrlich, FAIA First known for initiating Multicultural Modernism®, which he evolved while working, traveling, and teaching architecture in North and West Africa, Steven Ehrlich, FAIA, went on to build an award-winning practice over the course of fifty years, generously mentoring partners and multiple generations of architects, both within and well beyond his firm. “Steven Ehrlich, FAIA’s, innovative, culturally responsive approach to architecture has shaped both the built environment and the next generation of architects,” observed the AIA California Board of Directors in bestowing the award. “He exemplifies excellence in multiple categories: Design, mentorship, teaching, publications, African regionalism and development, and firm growth. Any one, individually, would qualify him for this award.” //lifetime achievement award Lorcan O’Herlihy, FAIA Lifetime Achievement Award : Lorcan O’Herlihy, FAIA Described by peers as a visionary practitioner who blends artistry with a commitment to social responsibility, Lorcan O’Herlihy, FAIA, utilizes architecture as a catalyst of change to shape and enrich the complex, urban landscape of the contemporary city. His career reflects what it means to be an architect in California today. “Lorcan O’Herlihy’s work combines design excellence with a deep commitment to social equity,” said the AIA California Board of Directors in bestowing the award. “His focus on urban transformation and advocacy for affordable housing positions him as a leader in socially responsible architecture. Pairing that with his extensive award-winning portfolio and educational contributions, his career reflects significant service to the field of architecture.” //firm award Studio Gang Firm Award : Studio Gang Driven by an ethos that seeks to “articulate the big ideas that move us” and find ways to methodically pursue and accomplish them through design, Studio Gang realizes innovative work all while fostering a highly collaborative environment and forming a strong design community. Using design to connect people, communities, and the environment, the San Francisco office is an integral part of award-winning projects across the world. “Studio Gang has demonstrated a ripple effect: their impact is felt on local, national and global levels — and their influence extends beyond architecture. It has produced stunning buildings that have become landmarks in the communities they are placed,” stated the AIA Board of Directors. “They consistently push the boundaries of their projects, not only in sustainability and inclusivity, but also on both the practice and theoretical side.” About the American Institute of Architects California (AIA CA) AIA California is dedicated to serving its members, and uniting all architecture professionals in the design of a more just, equitable, and resilient future through advocacy, education, and political action. The organization represents the interests of more than 11,000 architects and allied professionals in California. Founded in 1944, the AIA CA is the largest component of the national AIA organization. For more information, visit www.aiacalifornia.org

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