This year, the AIA San Diego Design Awards program continues to promote design excellence, sustainability and social responsibility by recognizing projects that strengthen the overall power and scope of architecture, shape the built environment and enrich the human spirit.

Michael W. Folonis Architects submitted the Deli-Loop project, a cafe and delicatessen located in Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico and the project was awarded with the Best Metro Tijuana Award.

The AIA San Diego Design Awards Program is excited to promote good design in San Diego County and across the border with our colleagues in Metro Tijuana. For the Deli Loop, the jury appreciated the indigenous materials; passive and active solar strategies; use of reclaimed water; simple and exposed materials; and clarity of design. The three distinct building elements relate to program requirements and symbolically represent the Mexico coat of arms. The jury stated it was also exciting to see a strong sustainable project blending solar orientation and natural ventilation to help achieve energy neutrality.