On June 18, OHNY was honored with a Special Citation, presented at the AIA New York’s 158th annual meeting, recognizing our work to “provide all New Yorkers with deeper connections to the city’s built environment—beyond just architects and design professionals.”

The full special citation is included below:

Open House New York (OHNY) celebrates the power of place. Since its very founding in the wake of 9/11, OHNY has championed openness and access as a defining principle of civic life.

Through year-round programming, from its Urban Systems Series to Public Policy Talks to its signature Open House New York Weekend festival, OHNY provides the public with an in-depth understanding of their city that few organizations can provide. At the heart of its mission is a belief that an informed and engaged public is essential to building a more open, equitable, and participatory city.

OHNY fosters dialogue between communities, designers, and policy makers, highlighting collaborative solutions to urban challenges. Its programming demystifies the systems and structures that shape the built environment. By opening doors—literally and figuratively—OHNY empowers New Yorkers to become active stewards of their neighborhoods and advocates for a more inclusive city.

We are honored and thank our friends and colleagues at the AIA New York for the recognition. Pictured in the photo, from left, founding Board member Caroline Otto, board chair Sara Lopergolo, executive director Kristin LaBuz, deputy director Elis Shin, and founder Scott Lauer.