PHILADELPHIA, PA The Philadelphia Chapter of the American Institute of Architects recognized DIGSAU and Hospitality3 with a prestigious citywide Architectural Excellence Design Honor Award in the built category for their design of the Study at University City. The boutique hotel opened at the crossroads of Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania in West Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

"The structure is a bold, simple, urban form clearly articulated above a pedestrian base, with thoughtful detailing and fenestration that create an elegant and active façade," said the Architectural Excellence Award Jury, which was comprised of some of Chicago, Illinois,' leading architects.

"The design for the Study, a boutique hotel, grows from a sense of connectivity to the unique and vibrant spirit of Philadelphia's University City and is organized as a simple podium and tower," said Jeff Goldstein of DIGSAU. "The podium is comprised of distinct "˜pavilions' containing the hotel's major public spaces, each with a unique relationship to the adjacent sidewalk. The hotel's guest rooms are housed in the tower, slightly rotated as a nod to the historic Woodland Walk, which runs diagonally through the Drexel and Penn campuses. The tower's skin is a unique brick bond with a composition of three window types, animating the façade and diversifying the guest experience."

"Our goal in the design of the building was to create a sophisticated urban hotel that calls attention to itself as a commanding, yet stylish form, with a strong connection to the street. The materiality of the building was conceived from several precedents found in the Philadelphia market; a composition of natural materials presented in a variety of finishes with metallic accents to create interest" said Paul McGowan, Hospitality3 and Study Hotels President and Founder.

Each winning project was chosen for its design quality, response to its context and community, program resolution, innovation, thoughtfulness, and technique. Submitted projects had to be completed by AIA Philadelphia members. There were 150 entries. The winners range from temporary installations and exhibitions to large-scale urban interventions.