We are thrilled to announce that Sheena Mayfield, AIA has been honored with the 2024 AIA Virginia Emerging Architect Award! This prestigious recognition celebrates her dedication to architectural innovation and discourse where every thoughtful decision embodies the essence of community. Her work is both responsive and contemplative; focusing on how impactful details draw you in to create an immersive personal experience while addressing the needs of the masses.
Golden Hammer Awards (left) and The Planet Apartments during construction (right)
Sheena’s unwavering commitment to rewriting the textbook on affordable housing is underscored by accolades such as Historic Richmond and Storefront for Community Design’s Golden Hammer Awards where her project, The Planet Apartments, won Best New Construction in 2023—standing as the sole affordable housing nomination.
Beyond her design acumen lies a profound commitment to education. Sheena’s stewardship extends to nurturing the next generation of architects through initiatives like Baskervill Ask[U]—a career-awareness program seeking to introduce high-school age students to careers in STEAM fields. Sheena’s dedication to service extends beyond the confines of academia and her profession to her broader community. As a volunteer at Art180 and Storefront for Community Design, she leverages her expertise to empower marginalized voices and foster inclusivity within the built environment.
Collaboration while teaching
Sheena’s dedication to service extends beyond the confines of academia and her profession to her broader community. As a volunteer at Art180 and Storefront for Community Design, she leverages her expertise to empower marginalized voices and foster inclusivity within the built environment.
Design Session at Art180
“While it’s her hard work and dedication that has brought her to this point in her career, it’s Sheena’s belief that architecture should be accessible—both in practice and through education—that drives her forward,” said Principal and supervisor, Angelo Phillos, AIA. “Within Baskervill’s Mixed-Use & Multifamily studio, Sheena focuses on blending historical context with innovative techniques to push the boundaries of design discourse and enhance strategic inclusivity. Through her mentorship and advocacy, she strives to advance the profession by equipping the next generation with a strong foundation for growth. Additionally, her commitment to community service highlights her holistic impact on the field.”
Sheena’s legacy extends far beyond the structures she designs; it resides in the hearts of the communities she serves and the designers she inspires to follow in her footsteps.
Please join us in congratulating Sheena on this well-deserved honor.