David Lake, FAIA and Ted Flato, FAIA Awarded 2024 AIA Gold Medal

This recognition is especially meaningful as we prepare to celebrate Lake Flato’s 40th anniversary and reflect on four decades of place-based, sustainable and inclusive architecture.

Together, David and Ted have built an enduring design practice driven by resonant and sustainable architecture, meaningful collaborations and an unwavering commitment to design excellence. From the firm’s initial ranch houses, to a breadth of work including nature centers, STEM buildings and mixed-use urban developments, David and Ted have continuously pushed the boundaries of architecture, always designing to connect people to the land. Their leadership, tenacity and significant body of work has inspired the next generations of architects within the firm and beyond.

“Through the confluence of nature, beauty, and resilience, Lake and Flato  have made sustainability exciting in a way few other architects have accomplished. The projects they envision have raised the collective consciousness surrounding our climate crisis while simultaneously captivating a broad audience with buildings that are both beautiful and sustainable. While Texas, a region grappling with unprecedented growth and climate change, seems an unlikely place for a firm focused on sustainability to thrive, they have nevertheless helped clients see architecture and sustainability as inextricably linked.” – AIA Gold Medal Jury