May 29, 2025 Barack and Michelle Obama Teen Empowerment Center wins 2025 AIA Design Award

May 29, 2025 (Rochester, NY) – The Design Awards recognizes excellence in architecture by local architects. We’re proud to announce one of our projects, the Barack and Michelle Obama Teen Empowerment Center, has won the Community Impact Award.

Designed by SWBR in collaboration with Christa Construction, the Center brings a warm, intentional presence to the community. Spaces in the center include an Empowerment Hall, the Sankofa Study, connecting youth to their community history, and the Zen Den, a meditation room for reflection and well-being.

Both indoor and outdoor areas are thoughtfully designed to foster creative programming and encourage community collaboration.