Last night, Thursday, April 20, the 2023 Southeast Designers and Architect of the Year Awards (SEDY) were presented by ADAC (Atlanta Decorative Arts Center) and VERANDA to firms and individuals from across the Southeast who exemplify the highest level of talent in the categories of architecture, contract design, and residential design. Reviewed by a celebrated group of judges, winners were picked from a group of 26 regional finalists spanning five states and were announced at a private gala at Flourish to wrap up ADAC’s spring market, DESIGN ADAC.

The 2023 Southeast Designers and Architect of the Year winners include the following:

CATEGORY FIRM
Architect Chris Reebals of Christopher Architecture & Interiors | Birmingham, AL
Contract Design Square Feet Studio | Atlanta, GA
Residential Design Bronwyn Ford of Pursley Dixon Ford Interior Design | Charlotte, NC

“Our 2023 winners represent extraordinary design across the entire Southeast and for the second time in the history of the awards, they each hail from a different major city in our region,” said Katie Miner, ADAC General Manager. “It’s exciting to see how all have continued to refine their craft over the years. Both Pursley Dixon Ford Interior Design and Christopher Architecture & Interiors have consistently been finalists in their respective categories and are first-time winners this year, while Square Feet Studio takes home their second win this year with one prior in 2014. It’s wonderful to see how these firms consistently transcend expectations, ultimately raising the bar for future candidates.”

This year’s esteemed finalists and winners were selected by a decorated team of top industry individuals, including Steele Marcoux Editor-In-Chief of VERANDA, John Ike Architect and Founder of Ike Baker Velten, and interior designer and Woodard CEO Jean Liu. Remarks from the judges regarding the finalists are included below:

“This firm’s work is clearly rooted in traditional forms and influence, yet it breaks the mold with its use of scale, material and rhythm. With thoughtful floor plans and site plans, these projects are exemplary reflections of how we want to live today. The result is work that feels exciting, original, and beautifully livable,” recalls judge Steele Marcoux of Christopher Architecture & Interiors.

“These three projects covered a range of types and a mastery of mood-making. The spa is soft, soothing, and welcoming, utilizing a monochromatic palette and relying on texture, form, and lighting to convey a feeling,” added judge John Ike describing Square Feet Studio.

Jean Liu concludes by describing Pursley Dixon Ford Interior Design stating, “The projects from this submission teem with elegance and sophistication. Each home is finished in a manner that elevates both the architecture and landscape, all the while effortlessly reflecting the lifestyle and interests of each homeowner. From the soothing material palette to furnishings, these interiors were a visual delight.”