The Voice for Texas Architecture

O’Neil Ford Medal for Design Achievement

Recognizing outstanding achievement in architectural design.

O’Neil Ford Medal for Design Achievement

Recognizing outstanding achievement in architectural design.

Award Overview

Established in 2015, the Texas Society of Architects’ O’Neil Ford Medal recognizes outstanding achievement in architectural design as exemplified in a body of work produced by an individual architect over a period of at least 20 years.

2021 Recipient: Mark T. Wellen, FAIA

Mark Wellen is a co-founder and principal of Rhotenberry Wellen Architects in Midland. He was elevated to Fellowship in 2014 in the category of design and is known for creating buildings and spaces imbued with vernacular beauty. With a palette that incudes raw and galvanized steel, concrete, and glass — materials appropriate to their setting in the West Texas landscape — Wellen creates timeless structures characterized by rigorous detailing, capacity for shade and shelter, and inherent durability.  His projects vary in typology and size and range from ranch shelters and residences to museums and downtown office towers. Among his iconic designs are Becky’s Birthday, Cinco Camp, Parkside House, and Sombreada Hasta.

2020
Mell Lawrence, FAIA
Austin

2019
Gary Cunningham, FAIA
Dallas

2018
David Lake, FAIA, and Ted Flato, FAIA
San Antonio

2017
Max Levy, FAIA
Dallas

2016
Chris Carson, FAIA, and Boone Powell, FAIA
San Antonio

2015
Frank D. Welch, FAIA
Dallas