Small Arms Training Facility

Jury Comments

“The jury is proud to present an Honor Award to this small arms training facility—a project that exemplifies clarity, restraint, and performance-driven design. Built with 8" tilt-up concrete panels and a vented brick rainscreen, the building envelope is meticulously crafted to minimize heat gain and moisture intrusion in Mississippi’s hot, humid climate. Passive strategies abound: a reflective metal roof, convection-driven wall assemblies, and a perforated sunshade that filters southern light into the classroom. One juror called it a “straight-shooting” building—simple in form, yet deeply intentional. The subtle gradation of recessed brick and pilasters evokes the trajectory and deceleration of a bullet, tying architectural expression to programmatic purpose. Though modest in scale, this facility demonstrates how thoughtful detailing and environmental responsiveness can elevate even the most utilitarian spaces into award-worthy architecture.”