National Design Award Winners, Finalists Heading to White House

Upon learning of his or her status as a finalist for the National Design Award, even the most jaded architect, typographer, or trophy-laden lifetime achiever cannot suppress a fist pump and a wild-eyed declaration: “I’m goin’ to the White House!” The highly anticipated field trip (don’t forget to bring your government-issued I.D.!) usually takes place in July, when the fish are jumpin’, the cotton is high, and post Labor Day-obligations are still weeks away. Not this year.