Manitoga/The Russel Wright Design Center has bestowed its signature award upon architect David Rockwell and American nature writer, Verlyn Klinkenborg. The Russel Wright Award acknowledges those who carry forward the legacy of iconic mid-century industrial designer Russel Wright.
The award recognized Rockwell-founder and president of New York-based Rockwell Group-for his recent work in the Hudson Valley including the design of Roundhouse at Beacon Falls. The project involved the renovations of 19th and early 20th century industrial buildings into an environmentally conscious destination hotel, restaurant, and spa. 

Also honored was Verlyn Klinkenborg-author and New York Times columnist for “Rural Life”-whose writings connect readers to the natural world.
“Our 2013 honorees represent the arc of Wright’s prolific career from early designs for the stage to his masterful synthesis of design and nature at Manitoga where he celebrated the drama and the poetry of daily living. We are thrilled to present this year’s Russel Wright Award to such distinguished creative professionals.”
“It’s a great honor to receive the Russel Wright Award,” says David Rockwell, founder and president of Rockwell Group. “Russel Wright was a design visionary who – among numerous accomplishments – transformed his passion for good design into products that brought pleasure and joy to many American homes. So I feel fortunate to be among such an incredible group of honorees, including this year’s co-recipient Verlyn Klinkenborg.”
