A pool pavilion designed to resemble a group of traditional farm buildings in Litchfield County, Conn., has earned the architecture firm James Dixon Architect PC a Design Excellence Award from the American Institute of Architects. The prize is one of only three such awards given by the Eastern New York Chapter of the AIA in 2010.

The pool pavilion features an exposed, custom-designed timber frame built with reclaimed antique beams. Steel-and-glass doors open on three sides of the building to catch breezes and take full advantage of the changing light throughout the day. When seen from a distance, the project resembles a group of farm buildings, but with the sliding doors open, the pavilion has a streamlined, modern flair.

“Our designs always strive to be sensitive to both the site and local traditions, while providing the modern amenities clients want,” says James Dixon, AIA, principal of the firm.

The Design Excellence Award was presented earlier this month at a ceremony in Troy, New York hosted by Patrick J. Quinn, the distinguished Professor Emeritus and former Dean of Architecture at Rensselaer Polytechnic. A total of 12 awards were presented, including five Awards of Merit and four Honorable Mentions.

“It’s always nice to be recognized by your peers, and we’re honored to receive this award from the American Institute of Architects,” says Dixon. “We had a great team of consultants, and together we created a project that our clients are extremely happy with.”

The custom steel and glass doors were hand built by Peter Kirkiles of PKDF in Kent, Conn. “Peter was terrific,” adds Dixon. “Some of the doors are 16 feet high, not something one can just pick up at a local hardware store. He transformed our ideas into tangible works of art.”