Call for Entries: 2018 Excellence in Masonry Awards

Words: Bronzella Cleveland

For over 40 years, the Masonry Advisory Council has hosted the Excellence in Masonry Awards, recognizing architectural design excellence and the talent behind making those design concepts a reality. Some of the greatest architects in Chicago, from both large and small firms, have competed for and have been honored with these awards. After a hiatus, the event is being reinstated to recognize and celebrate today’s modern designers.

Become part of the tradition by submitting your projects to Excellence in Masonry 2018. For more information on how your firm can be recognized and to enter projects, visit masonryadvisorycouncil.org/events.

Entries are due February 15, 2018. An awards reception will be held at the Chicago History Museum on April 21, 2018.

Holding History Together: The Art of Lateral Restraint in Masonry Restoration
January 2026

The first thing you notice about an old masonry building isn’t always its beauty. Sometimes it’s the bow in a wall or the way time and the elements have tugged at the mortar joints. Every century-old structure carries its story in cracks, tilts, bows, and

Stone Savvy: Helping Clients Choose Stone with Intent
January 2026

In today’s design environment, clients are surrounded by inspiration, endless images, samples, and styles that make choosing materials feel exciting and overwhelming all at once. Within that sea of options, stone carries weight. It defines first impressio

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 36 Recap: Kim Spahn, CEO of the Concrete Masonry Checkoff
January 2026

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Justin got to sit down for a conversation with Kim Spahn to talk about the Concrete Masonry Checkoff, how Kim first got involved in this industry, and much more.

From Day One to Long-Term Success: Onboarding Strategies for Contractors
January 2026

The construction industry is facing one of its toughest challenges in decades. Companies are struggling to find enough skilled workers while competing to keep the ones they have. At the same time, projects are becoming more complex, deadlines are tighter,