Maria Song, a principal with Palm Springs-based Interactive Design Corporation, received honorable mention from the International Design Awards for the design of The Monarch Apartment Homes, a 60-unit affordable housing community currently under development by the Community Housing Opportunities Corporation. The award underscores the critical role design plays in the development and creation of affordable housing. The first affordable housing complex to break ground in the area in more than a decade, completion is slated for January 2023.

“Interactive Design is honored and humbled to be a part of this team – client, agencies, investors, designers, engineers and contractors – which has been recognized by the International Design Awards,” said Song. “We’re hopeful this honor continues to bring attention to the need for housing at all economic and social levels. Well-designed and affordable housing is essential for emotional and physical health.”

Awards are chosen from thousands of entries that came from more than 80 countries. IDA seeks out visionary designers who showcase creativity and innovation.

“We saw a large number of designers reflecting on the current state of the world including the pandemic, social distancing, sustainability, climate change and circular economies, all of which were clearly evident,” said Jill Grinda, vice president, marketing and business development for the IDA.