Sterling nave renovation lauded by architecture group

The renovation of the nave of the Sterling Memorial Library has received a 2015 American Institute of Architects New England Design Award in the preservation category.

The project by Helpern Architects of New York City is a “masterful restoration of this massive structure,” said the jury citation. “Illumination, and especially the combination of historic and contemporary lighting, is a key component of this successful restoration.

“This is a consummate, classic example of the high art of preservation — not showing the hand of the preservation architect,” the citation continues. “The aspects of how the library is used today, both in the digital age and as a great repository of books, are acknowledged.”

The Yale restoration was one of 14 projects in New England or designed by architects in the region to be honored, from a pool of more than 275 submissions.