We are incredibly honored to once again be recognized by the Gold Nugget Awards, one of the most prestigious awards programs in the residential design industry. Presented by CBIA and PCBC, these awards celebrate projects that push the boundaries of design, planning, and development to create meaningful, livable communities. For over six decades, they’ve spotlighted the best and brightest in our field—and this year, we’re proud to have not one, but three awards added to our legacy of excellence.
Featured Photos: Tom’s Starlight
Gold Nugget Grand Award Winner – Best Rehabilitation Project
Project: Tom’s Starlight/Champagne Tiger | Denver, CO
Builder: Denver Land Company
Developer: GBX Group
Architect/Designer: KEPHART
Planner: KEPHART
Landscape Design: Dunn & Kiley Landscape Architects
Interior Design: Compliment Design interiors
Photographer: Kyla Chambers
Originally built in 1967 by famed designers Armet and Davis, Tom’s Starlight/Champagne Tiger is a Googie-style diner transformed into a glamorous cocktail lounge with a 1960s Palm Springs vibe. This award-winning rehabilitation preserved its iconic architectural features—like terrazzo flooring, stone veneer, and the original open kitchen—while introducing fresh, modern touches such as a sleek walnut-paneled kitchen, vibrant era-appropriate furnishings, and expansive outdoor seating.
The creative reuse of the parking lot allowed for fire pits, cabanas, and a perimeter tree canopy that supports the original roofline’s expressive silhouette. The result is a vibrant, multi-experience space that honors the past while offering a new destination for connection and culture in the heart of Denver.
Featured Photos: Riverside
Award of Merit Winner – Best Build-for-Rent Community Plan
Award of Merit Winner – Best Build-for-Rent Community Product Design
Project: Riverside | Mount Holly, NC
Developer: Long Key Development
Architect/Planner: KEPHART
Landscape & Civil: Design Resource Group
Interiors: DDM Designs
Riverside, located in Mount Holly, a suburb or Charlotte, NC is a thoughtfully designed build-to-rent community offering the feel of single-family homes with the perks of a professionally managed rental lifestyle. The innovative layout—pairing homes front-to-back rather than side-by-side—creates more street frontage and privacy, while maximizing density. Five unique unit plans (ranch and two-story), all built to the same width, allow for flexible configurations and adaptation to regional styles.
Homes are organized around courtyard clusters, with garages facing the street and pedestrian entries along internal paths—enhancing community interaction. Each home includes a garage or private parking space and high-clerestory windows for privacy and light. A resort-inspired amenity package, including a pool, clubhouse, pickleball courts, and dog park, ensures Riverside meets the needs of today’s discerning renters.
With 695 entries this year, we are incredibly honored to have our work recognized. We are deeply grateful to our clients, partners, and team members who make this work possible. These awards represent more than beautiful buildings—they reflect our ongoing commitment to creating spaces that inspire connection, elevate lifestyles, and strengthen communities. We’re excited to continue pushing the boundaries of what thoughtful design can achieve. To learn more about the PCBC Gold Nugget Awards, click here
