These honors reflect ZMM’s ongoing commitment to thoughtful design and meaningful community impact.

ZMM Architects and Engineers is proud to announce that Cedar Grove Elementary School and the Woody Williams Center for Advanced Learning and Careers have received awards from the American Institute of Architects – West Virginia Chapter (AIA WV). These projects are among the 29 AIA WV awards ZMM has received since 2005 for in-state projects, more than any other West Virginia-based firm. ZMM’s work demonstrates how thoughtful design can elevate both the built environment and the people it serves.

Cedar Grove Elementary School, Kanawha County Schools
Citation Award for Achievement in Architecture (Interiors)

Originally constructed in 1954, Cedar Grove Elementary School was reimagined to support contemporary learning while honoring its history. The project prioritized safety, energy efficiency, and operational performance, serving as a model for right-sizing schools in communities experiencing population loss.

The design introduces intuitive circulation through dynamic flooring and incorporates flexible learning environments, including a media center connected to a STEM hub with a retractable NanaWall system. Modern systems, improved daylighting, and a flood-conscious layout enhance performance, while heritage elements like the reused gym floor maintain a strong connection to the school’s past.

The jury recognized the project as a dynamic transformation that incorporates creative design elements and shared that the reuse of the gym floor as a feature wall and the energy of the cafeteria space stood out as thoughtful and engaging moves.

“Cedar Grove Elementary demonstrates how thoughtful design can right-size and reinvigorate an existing school while preserving its identity within the community. In areas experiencing population decline, right-sizing a school is not just about efficiency, it is about creating a sustainable, high-quality learning environment that can serve future generations,” said Adam Krason, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, ALEP, who was Principal-in-Charge on the project. “By strategically reducing the building footprint and reimagining the interior, we created a more flexible and engaging space that supports today’s educational needs while maintaining a strong connection to the community’s history and identity.”

ZMM provided comprehensive design services for the project, working closely with Kanawha County Schools and City Construction Company to bring the vision to life.

Woody Williams Center for Advanced Learning and Careers, Cabell County Schools
Community Impact Award

The Woody Williams Center for Advanced Learning and Careers transforms a former retail building into a purpose-driven educational facility serving Cabell County and the surrounding region. Through adaptive reuse, the design converts the large-format space into flexible environments supporting programs in healthcare, advanced manufacturing, information technology, and skilled trades.

The project extends beyond architecture by strengthening partnerships between education, industry, and the community, serving as a regional hub for workforce development and hands-on learning.

The jury recognized the project as a transformative adaptive reuse project that extends beyond architecture into meaningful community impact. They shared that the building serves as a vibrant hub for education and workforce development, reflecting both thoughtful design and a strong sense of purpose.

“The Woody Williams Center is about creating opportunity and connection for the community. From the beginning, this was a collaborative effort with Cabell County Schools and local partners to build something that supports students in a more direct, meaningful way. Bringing academics and career training together in one place helps students stay engaged and better prepares them for their futures,” shared David Ferguson, AIA, REFP, who was Principal-in-Charge on the project. “It is rewarding to see a project like this make such a tangible difference, not just for students, but for the entire region.”

ZMM collaborated with Cabell County Schools and Neighborgall Construction Company to deliver the project, working closely with stakeholders to ensure the facility meets evolving educational and workforce needs.