Pasadena Community House Wins 2024 American Public Works Association BEST Project of the Year Award

The City of Pasadena has been awarded the 2024 American Public Works Association (APWA) BEST Project of the Year Award for its Washington Park Community House, a facility that combines sustainable design with historic neighborhood character.

The project, honored in the Recreational and Athletic Facilities category by APWA’s Southern California Chapter, earned recognition for its innovative design and community engagement approach.

Each year, the Chapter honors outstanding public works projects that excel in performance, uniqueness, and positive impact on community quality of life.

Located in one of Pasadena’s oldest neighborhoods within historic Washington Park, the facility incorporates sustainable Craftsman architecture with abundant natural light through skylights and large windows. The design includes strategic solar shading on the south and west facades for enhanced energy efficiency, while high-thermal resistive and eco-friendly materials ensure a comfortable, green environment for visitors.

The building’s design harmonizes with its historic park setting, reflecting community needs and values. Features include an outdoor learning space and a south entrance showcasing traditional Craftsman elements with stone masonry and exposed beam work surrounded by palm trees.

The award selection process evaluated projects from similar-sized cities across Southern California, with judges considering performance, uniqueness, and positive impact on community quality of life.