David Oakland, FAIA, LEED AP, has been awarded the prestigious Milton Latour Grigg Award by AIA Central Virginia. This is the highest honor bestowed upon a member architect, recognizing a distinguished and sustained body of accomplishments that transcend typical professional activities.
David’s career spans more than four decades, during which he has made an indelible impact on architecture, both locally and globally. In his hometown of Charlottesville, David has championed numerous transformative projects that have enriched the community’s built environment. His leadership has played a pivotal role in shaping the physical and cultural landscape of the city. Notably, David has led efforts in affordable housing through his work with the Charlottesville Housing Foundation and the Piedmont Housing Alliance, raising over $10 million to support community-focused developments. David has helped revitalize our local affordable housing community, transforming it into a thriving development that provides homeownership opportunities for first-time buyers.
David has played a key role in major campus planning and design projects for the University of Virginia (UVA), a client of VMDO since the firm’s founding. His projects at UVA, such as Wilsdorf Hall, Gooch Dillard Residential Complex, and Hereford Residential College, have made lasting contributions to the university's architectural fabric, balancing tradition with modernity. These projects have earned him numerous accolades and demonstrate his ability to design spaces that foster learning, collaboration, and community engagement.
Beyond Charlottesville, David's influence reaches internationally, as he leads the Muni Lagoon Environmental Education Center project in Winneba, Ghana, through VMDO’s Design Corps initiative. This pro bono project exemplifies his commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and global impact.
Throughout his career, David has worked on more than 100 higher education projects and received over 100 design awards. His efforts in sustainability are particularly notable, including leading the design of the first LEED Platinum residence hall renovation in the country. David’s dedication to mentorship and community service further cements his legacy, influencing generations of architects and making a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals.
