he American Institute of Architects North Carolina Chapter (AIANC) was pleased to present the F. Carter Williams Gold Medal Award to Darrel J. Williams, Sr., FAIA. This is the highest honor presented by the Chapter to a member of AIA North Carolina.  It is awarded to an individual in recognition of a distinguished career or extraordinary accomplishments as an architect. The award is named in memory of Raleigh architect, F. Carter Williams, FAIA.  

Darrel J. Williams, FAIA, a found partner and the owner of Neighboring Concepts, has spent almost a quarter-century demonstrating that the practice of architecture can transform communities socially as well as physically, with a focus on community and the urban context, not simply buildings. The breadth and depth of his work in Charlotte and North Carolina is a testament to his passion not just for the power of award-winning architectural design but for the importance of truly engaging with communities. His involvement over decades with parks, affordable housing, transit, and neighborhood betterment has made Charlotte a stronger city. 

Williams is driven by the desire to help sustain and revitalize urban communities, to give back to his profession, and to influence positive change. For him “transforming communities through architecture” is more than his firm’s tagline; it is his life’s calling.

Over the past 37 years, Williams has served on several state and local boards, commissions, civic and community organizations. He served as President of Third Ward Neighbors Association (Charlotte) and the Uptown Optimist Club of Charlotte. He served several years on Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Commission and Mecklenburg County Housing and Development Committee. He previously served on the Executive Committee for both Central Piedmont Community College Board of Trustees and Charlotte Center City Partners and is a former Chair of the Library Board of Trustees. Williams recently chaired the Campaign, Partnership for a Better Mecklenburg. In 2008, he served as Co-Chair for the successful 2008 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Capital Bond Campaign.

“My immense respect for Darrel is based on knowing him well as an architect, colleague, and friend. His long-time dedication to our profession is consistent, sincere, and selfless always striving for the betterment of the communities being served, our profession, and the State of North Carolina” said Walt Teague, FAIA.

“While Darrel exemplifies the label “Citizen Architect” in so many aspects of his civic life, he also presents a design portfolio that demonstrates this same goal – to see architecture as reflective of community aspiration and design quality to elevate community” said Ken Lambla, AIA.