By Ellen de Saint Phalle, Member, Board of Directors, The Bronxville Historical Conservancy

Sep. 21, 2016:  The Bronxville Historical Conservancy (BHC) is seeking nominations for the 2016 Preservation Award. Established in 2015, this award recognizes individuals, organizations, and businesses that have strengthened the fabric of the Bronxville community through exceptional commitment to preserving an understanding of its rich past and unique character. 

Projects eligible for this award must be complete at the time of submission and fall within seven specific categories: architectural restoration, conservation of architectural elements, renovations and additions, garden and landscape design, craftsmanship and fine arts, preservation of the historical record, and stewardship and advocacy. The deadline for submissions is November 1, 2016.

"We are eager to review submissions this year," said BHC co-chair Erin Saluti. "Bronxville is rich in talented people and organizations that care deeply for preserving and enriching our village. The Conservancy is delighted to recognize these exceptional individuals, organizations, and businesses."

The awards committee includes six professionals with expertise in a broad array of fields including art, architecture, interior and landscape design, and city planning. The committee members are Maureen Hackett, landscape designer; Anderson Kenny, architect; Stafford Meyer, interior designer; Sarah Underhill, freelance editor, writer, and art historian; Larry Vranka, lawyer and member of the Narragansett Historic Commission, Rhode Island; and Erin Saluti, BHC co-chair and past president of the Lawrence Park Hilltop Association. Each possesses a passion for design, a commitment to community, and together, they provide decades of experience in helping to shape and preserve our landscape.

Nominations for projects must include the name and location of the project and contact information for all project owners, architects, contractors, and craftspersons. Self-nominations are welcome. Submissions should also include a one- to two-page narrative explaining the history of the project, the category for which the project is being nominated, its historical significance, and how it reflects the unique character of Bronxville. Supporting documents and digital images are strongly encouraged and should be clearly labeled. Mail submissions to The Bronxville Historical Conservancy, P.O. Box 989, Bronxville, NY 10708, Attention: Chair, Preservation Award Committee.  

BHC co-chair Jack Bierwirth said, "We were pleased to present the inaugural award last year to People's United Bank for their restoration of the 1920s Gramatan National Bank clock. We look forward to recognizing other exceptional projects and hope this award will also serve to inspire future endeavors for preserving and enhancing the character of our village."

BHC board member Anderson Kenny designed the award, a bronze cast plaque. The winner will be announced at The Bronxville Historical Conservancy's holiday party on December 14 at Siwanoy Country Club.

For more information, including criteria for nominations, go to the Conservancy's website. 

Photo by N. Bower