Loudoun County Celebrates 20 Years of Design Excellence with 2025 Signatures of Loudoun Award Winners
At the June 3 meeting of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, the Loudoun County Design Cabinet, in partnership with the Department of Economic Development, proudly announced the winners of the 2025 Signatures of Loudoun Design Excellence Awards. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the program, which has recognized and elevated outstanding design across the county for two decades.
“Every great community is built with intention,” said Buddy Rizer, Executive Director of Loudoun Economic Development. “By honoring these outstanding projects, we’re also supporting a vibrant economy, celebrating local talent, and reinforcing the unique character of our community.”
To commemorate the 20th anniversary, Loudoun Economic Development created a special edition Signatures of Loudoun book, highlighting two decades of award-winning design across Loudoun County. An interactive digital version of the commemorative book can be found at SignaturesofLoudoun.com.
The 2025 Signatures of Loudoun honorees include a mix of historic preservation, infrastructure upgrades, visionary development, and community-focused public spaces:
2025 Winners by Category:
- Details: Hummingbirds Hideaway Treehouse – A whimsical, artisan-crafted retreat that charmed the jury and student judges alike.
- Contextual Design: Birkby House Conservatory – A respectful and seamless addition to one of Leesburg’s most beloved historic homes.
- Infrastructure: Sterling Park Safety Center – A unifying, modern facility reflecting the service and strength of the Sterling community.
- Infrastructure: Leesburg Streetscape Improvements – A revitalization that blends historic charm with accessibility and walkability.
- Interiors: Dental Smiles at Purcellville Gateway – A calming, patient-first interior featuring reclaimed wood and locally made pottery sinks.
- Pace Setters: Equinix DC21 Exterior – A bold rethinking of data center design featuring dramatic façade uplighting that doubles as civic art.
- Pace Setters: Philip A. Bolen Memorial Park Restroom and Concession Facilities – Proof that even utilitarian spaces can reflect thoughtful architecture and environmental care.
- Public Spaces: Mervin Jackson Park East End – A beloved Leesburg pocket park offering shaded seating, playful features, and a donated community piano.
- Students’ Choice: Hummingbirds Hideaway Treehouse – Selected by student judges from the Academies of Loudoun for its imaginative, sustainable design and connection to nature.
“For 20 years, Signatures of Loudoun has been a reminder that good design is good business,” said Al Gooden, Chair of the Loudoun Design Cabinet, during the Board meeting. “Whether it’s a cozy treehouse retreat or an inspiring civic structure, good design defines the Loudoun we love.”
To learn more about this year’s winners, explore past awardees, or request a community design charrette with the Loudoun Design Cabinet, visit SignaturesofLoudoun.com.