Walton Family Foundation accepts design applications

The Walton Family Foundation is accepting applications for its Northwest Arkansas Design Excellence Program through Oct. 10. Design professionals can apply online at this link. The applications are open to architects, landscape architects and urban planners.

“The Design Excellence Program aims to create inclusive, innovative spaces that enhance community connections and foster a sense of belonging,” said Meredith Bergstrom, senior program officer at the Walton Family Foundation. “Northwest Arkansas offers a unique opportunity for designers to shape public spaces that reflect the region’s culture, support shared experiences and promote sustainability. This program is about partnering with professionals who can make a lasting impact on the region’s future through thoughtful, creative design.”

The newest projects in the Design Excellence Program include a campus master plan for NorthWest Arkansas Community College, a model for affordable housing in downtown Bentonville, and the expansion of Bentonville City Hall. Notable projects comprise TheatreSquared, Railyard Park and Thaden School, all of which have received awards including American Institute of Architects’ NY Design Merit Award and Regional and Urban Design Award, American Architecture Award and AIA NY Institutional Honor Award.

Established in 2015, the Northwest Arkansas Design Excellence Program “promotes the highest level of design in developing future public buildings and spaces in Benton and Washington counties,” the release shows.

“Four key principals guide the selection of its design professionals, projects and program success. They include a commitment to strengthening public life, elevating standards of sustainability and resilience, celebrating local cultures and places, and building regional capacity.”

The program accommodates design firms of all sizes, including area and nationally-recognized multidisciplinary firms, smaller specialty firms and new designers. A selection committee and foundation representatives choose which professionals will be added to the program. If accepted, designers can participate for up to five years or until they are selected for a project.