The prestigious Residential Pattern Award of Excellence for 2004 has been given to some property built in Hugo, Minn. The competition, sponsored yearly from the National Concrete Masonry Association, recognizes excellence in projects featuring the use of concrete masonry to develop quality residences.

The winning residence was created by Villa Architects and is house to the Wagner family. Components for construction were supplied by Willow Creek Concrete Solutions Inc. DC Landscaping performed the installation.

The household functions a distinctive and tasteful entryway, using a raised concrete paver patio and partition wall supporting an tasteful trellis. This inviting entryway delivers usable room for traffic flow and outdoor lounging.

An independent panel of distinguished architects and landscape architect experts chose the house out of more than 75 entries from across North America.

"Our Design and style Awards of Excellence plan aids not merely to showcase quality properties, but in addition to showcase the impressive and enjoyable methods that concrete masonry could be utilized in constructing interesting, sustainable structures that promote societal and environmental advancement," explained Mark B. Hogan, president from the NCMA.

The winners of this award are featured in the special problem of "Concrete Masonry Designs" magazine.

"Architects, engineers and landscape architects all recognise the value linked to the exposure gained through the promotion and publication of superb examples of progressive and relevant award-winning designs," said Marsha Lea, a principal with EDAW Inc. who served like a member on the jury panel.