Winner | 2025 AIA-SA Historic Award

In the bygone era of the silent screen, Hot Wells Resort drew socially prominent guests. From 1901 to 1923, the hot sulfur springs resort attracted celebrities, in part due to its co-location with Star Films, just across the River. Movie stars, political figures, and wealthy patrons gathered to “take the waters,” attend concerts and dances, hobnob on the grounds, and place wagers on the local ostrich races (yes, ostriches).

Founded by Alamo Architects staff, ActivateSA is a 501(c)(3) grassroots tactical planning initiative and advocacy organization. Composed of architects, landscape architects, conservationists, civil engineers, civic leaders, transportation planners, and others, volunteers work collectively to implement a well-connected regional transportation infrastructure. Since founding in 2019, we work for change through advocacy, consensus-building, and technical design.

Winner | 2025 AIA-SA Historic Award

Camp Hot Wells is a “campground” of structures organized around hot spring spa soaking and socializing. We are intrigued by the juxtaposition between the adjacent ruin site of a bygone playground of the wealthy, and creation of a new, inclusive gathering space for casual socializing and spa soaking – tapping the very same aquifer.