Life’s Report Card
Since the early 1980’s, Doug has submitted his work for 3rd party evaluation by industry experts. He believes that design awards are “life’s report card” for the professional designer. It’s one thing to think you did a good job, and to have the client say you did a good job, but it’s a whole other thing to have a panel of peers compare it to dozens or scores of others, and say “this is the best!” Asked which award he is most proud of, Doug replied, “my next one”!
12th Chrysalis Award
Doug Walter Architects has earned the 2025 Chrysalis Awards Regional Winner for “Historic Restoration”. To the right we share just one picture of the new south wall from the award winning “Granny’s Kitchen”. See our home page for more shots from this creative use of what was “old” and is now NEW!
Continuing to set new standards of professionalism, 66 remodeling companies from across the United States were named winners at the 2025 Chrysalis Awards for Remodeling Excellence. The entries were judged on overall design, the creative use of materials and space, and the degree to which the project enhanced the original structure.
NKBA National Design Award 2023
Grandparents’ Getaway
This inventive ADU conversion reimagined a 20th-century carriage house and modern garage into a welcoming retreat for the clients’ parents. Conceived during the pandemic (2021), it anticipated today’s surge in ADU popularity.
The cozy primary suite occupies the low-ceilinged carriage house, while the former garage now houses a vaulted great room and kitchen.The restructured roof provides a clear span, with faux beams concealing ambient lighting. Upstairs, a gentle stairway leads to an attic den overlooking the living space.
Accessibility, comfort, and light guided every choice — from the radiant heated floors and walk-in shower to the seven lighting circuits and skylit spaces.
Contractor: Mike and Danny Garner, Garner Homes