2014 HRACRE Juror's Award & Award of Excellence | Cheatham Annex Cottages and Comfort Station

Inside Business Award Article

Best Recreation/Entertainment/Hospitality Project

Cheatham Annex Cottages and Comfort Station

The cottages and comfort station at the Yorktown Cheatham Annex Naval Weapons Station greatly enhance the installation's recreational vehicle park located 15 miles upstream of the Chesapeake Bay along creeks adjacent to the York River, is thoughtfully designed to provide a true place of respite for military families, veterans, surviving spouses, Department of Defense employees and special guests.

Sixteen rustic two- and three-bedroom cottages ranging in size from 935 to 1,225 square feet are carefully sited 
to maximize guest privacy and stunning water views. Screened-in porches are designed as exposed timber systems with trussing timbers arranged to resemble tree branches. 

The comfort station - which houses restroom/showers, a community room, a laundry room, a vending area and other spaces - is a prominent focal point in the park with interesting illumination features that provide guests with a safe and welcoming destination in the evening. The comfort station incorporates sustainable design features such as low-flow plumbing, Energy Star equipment and efficient heat pumps. The cottages and station are designed to meet LEED Silver certification. 

Judges' comments:

"Despite the modest program and building type, the simple yet inventive detailing elevated the project. We love how the buildings are nestled into the wooded setting. The vernacular form and scale are very appropriate for the use and context. Although utilitarian, the buildings are carefully crafted. The "branch" truss detail is iconic throughout, yet simple and cost-effective. All the elements are beautifully scaled and detailed, not too tricked up. 

This is a great example of how excellent design can transform the ordinary to extraordinary. The jury also remarked on the beautiful photography and elegant presentation."