2021 Pillar of New York Honorees
For more than a quarter of a century, the Preservation League has presented the Pillar of New York Award to those who have demonstrated a deep understanding of the value of New York’s historic resources by taking extraordinary actions to protect, preserve and promote those assets. Through the Pillar Award the League recognizes and applauds those whose unwavering commitment to New York’s cultural and architectural heritage have made them role models throughout the Empire State and beyond.
We’ll be honoring the following pillars of New York during a virtual award ceremony on April 21, 2021.
Introducing our 2021 Honorees:
PBDW Principals
PBDW Architects is known for work that explores the interplay between new and old. PBDW specializes in creating new designs in historic contexts and has a special reputation for the design of contemporary additions to historic buildings, and their adaptive reuse and restoration. The firm’s vision is complemented by its extensive understanding of older methods of construction, preservation standards, and technical expertise.
MCR/Morse Development
Led by founder Tyler Morse, MCR/MORSE Development is the fifth-largest hotel owner-operator in the United States. The company’s sensitive redevelopment of Eero Saarinen’s landmark 1962 TWA Flight Center at JFK Airport is garnering significant praise. Thanks to MCR’s careful restoration and stewardship of this historic property, Saarinen’s masterpiece has taken flight once again as the heart of the TWA Hotel.
Hermes Mallea
Cuban-American architect Hermes Mallea is a well-known tastemaker and partner in M(Group), a New York design firm founded with Carey Maloney. The firm’s work with historic buildings in New York and the Hudson River Valley has led to his advocacy for historic preservation in these areas. Mr. Mallea has a deep connection to Cuba and its society, culture, and creativity - he lectures about the island’s architectural patrimony and has curated exhibitions on historic family life. He is the author of three books: Havana Living Today: Cuban Home Style Now, Great Houses of Havana, and Escape: The Heyday of Caribbean Glamour.