BIG NEWS!
KWD BRINGS HOME THE HARDWARE
KWD Landscape Architecture Wins Two Awards At The
2023 Gold Coast Builders Association Prism Awards
PROJECT MANAGER OF THE YEAR
Kristen Walters, Principal was honored to receive the Project Manager of The Year Award.
“It is certainly a very humbling experience for me to be recognized for my contributions, not only at KWD, but within our profession. This award will definitely hold a place of honor for me throughout my career.” Walters said.
Kris has been a valued member of the KWD Design Team for 23 years. Prior to working at KWD, Kris worked in the nursery industry for 23 years. She began her career at KWD as a draftsperson. Through extensive training, hard work and true grit she was escalated to Project Manager, quickly thereafter Sr. Project Manager, and in 2022 she was promoted to one of our firm’s Principals. Kris is responsible for all aspects of project management and design from concept to implementation. In addition to her regular duties, Kris is often found training and mentoring junior associates. She is passionate about staying up to date on the latest of technology, and will be the first to raise her hand to test out new programs and research new products and vendors. It’s been said, her book of business is an entity of it’s own.
A true icon in our profession, a dedicated advocate for our firm, and a true champion of our clients, Kris is extremely deserving of this prestigious award.
PLATINUM DESIGN AWARD
KWD also received a Platinum Award for Landscape Architecture & Design: Single Family Residential for our project Intracoastal Estate. The project was led by Founding Principal Krent Wieland, and Principal Kristen Walters.
“We are not a cover band, we write our own music,” Wieland said, “and this project really epitomizes the uniqueness we bring to every one of our designs.”
This stunning and unique Intracoastal Waterway estate was designed specifically to provide the clients with an exceptional outdoor living experience that is multi-functional and multi-sensory. The one-of-a-kind knife edge lounge pool breaks all barriers of ordinary design by integrating the knife-edge with a cascading water wall that flows into the pool, lounging islands, wet bar and dining seating, and a large center area that can be used as an entertainment space. Water features and a rain curtain integrated spa provide additional sensory enjoyment as you circulate through the design elements. Hardscape and softscape elements were impeccably designed to unconsciously guide the user through the experience. Inside, a dramatic 24’ high water feature commands the bar area. At the front of the residence, an integrated motor court connects two previously separated driveways and is lined with native and non-native plant material to soften the architecture and provide a welcoming approach to this incredible estate experience. The combination of landscape architecture design elements creates an award worthy, one-of-a-kind, immersive experience. The full portfolio can be found HERE.
Attending The Awards From L-R:
Susan Wieland, Client Relations Coordinator
Kristen Walters, Principal
Krent Wieland, Founding Principal
Patty Biron, Director of Operations
ABOUT THE GCBA PRISM AWARDS
The Gold Coast Builders Association (GCBA) Prism Awards are an annual event designed to recognize the best of the best builders, planners, architects, developers, designers, merchandisers, advertising, and other housing-related professionals. The PRISM Awards program is affiliated with the Gold Coast Builders Association, the local chapter of the Florida Home Builders Association (FHBA) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
This year more than 100 categories were represented in the competition including: New Construction; Interior Design; Remodeling; Architectural Design; Site Design & Development; Marketing; Personal Achievement; and several Commercial sectors.
“We are very excited for our winners this year,” said Frank R. Coppola, President, Gold Coast Builders Association. “The various projects entered into the PRISM Awards represented the best-of-the-best in our industry,” added Coppola.
Within the categories, winners were ranked upwards in order from Merit, to Silver, Gold, Platinum, Best Overall Marketing Campaign, Community of the Year, and The Grand Award.
“Despite the tough fought competition, what really shines through is the spirit, enthusiasm, and professionalism shown by every competitor. It’s an example of everyone who is involved our home building industry as well as the many associates who provide critical support to an industry that has a tremendous impact on each and everyone in the various communities we serve throughout the Gold Coast Builders Association region,” said Coppola.
Written by Patty Biron
Director of Operations & Business Development