Held annually, the Claws and Paws Construction competition recognizes outstanding projects in the architecture and construction industry, with an emphasis on creating environments that are both functional for our furry-friends and artistically inspiring.
We are happy to share that Garza Architects has been awarded the “Top Dog Design” award at the new Claws and Paws Construction Design-Build Competition! This achievement serves as a testament to the firms creativity, vision, and commitment to excellence through design. Winning “Top Dog Design” for outstanding design, judged by outside Architecture firms, demonstrates Garza Architects’ ability to differentiate ourselves among a pool of talented industry professionals, and to showcase our skill and creativity.
The Top Dog Design award is the ultimate award for the most outstanding, innovative and well-executed design.
THE DESIGN
Dogs instinctively find comfort in semi-sheltered areas where they can observe their surroundings. As such, Pawvilion allows for open views of the surrounding environment while catering to both the practical needs of providing food, water, and shelter, and the inherent qualities of dogs. Sloping roof and diverging wall panels convey a sense of expansiveness, while the interior form accommodates various seating and resting positions, with an emphasis on a dog’s natural desire to curl. Slots in each panel provide additional openings for airflow, while dedicated cutouts are included for food and water bowls. Inspired by the principles of modernist architecture, Pawvilion re-imagines canine comfort through the lens of sustainability and simplicity, emphasizing clean lines, open space, and a deep connection between form, function, and the outdoors.
Pawvilion is constructed from five precision CNC-cut Oriented Strand Board (OSB) panels that embrace sustainability while maintaining a refined aesthetic. The use of OSB reduces material waste in production by utilizing smaller, fast-growing trees in sustainably managed forests, reducing the material’s carbon footprint and deforestation. Additionally, OSB has an inherent raw, textural beauty that echoes the material honesty found in modernist architecture.
One of the main goals in design was to avoid the use of any mechanical fasteners. Instead, each prefabricated panel slots together using traditional Japanese joinery and wooden wedges for added stability, which allows for a minimal-tool disassembly, and reassembly for portability and convenience.
Pawvilion is designed for small- to medium-sized dogs and serves as both an area to relax, shielded from the Texas sun, and a practical feeding and resting area. Its open-air layout encourages relaxation and reduces a dog’s sense of isolation and anxiety. Pawvilion is more than just a doghouse, it is a statement that blends craftsmanship, sustainability, and modernism into a compact, four-legged-friendly place of retreat.
Your design was truly outstanding! It was amazing seeing it be constructed with no screws or bolts.
CONSTRUCTION PHOTOS:
FINAL PROJECT PHOTOS:
A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE IN EVERY DETAIL
Garza Architects’ design philosophy centers around a client-focused, in this case, pup-focused approach where every decision revolves around a deep understanding of both form and function. Attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, as well as proper consideration for sustainable materials, sets our work apart from competitors. The Top Dog Design award celebrates the firm’s dedication to creating spaces that inspire and elevate, bridging the gap between functionality and interaction with the building and space.
THE POWER OF COLLABORATION
Behind every successful project is a team of professionals working together toward a common goal. Garza Architects’ collaborative approach with Bandy Constructors was fundamental to our success at the Claws and Paws Construction competition. Following initial design charrettes, the firm worked closely with our volunteer pup, Mack, to ensure all design choices were functional, safe, and comfortable, as well as Bandy Constructors to ensure the final built project would be achievable and effective in reach our goal of minimal manufacturing. The Top Dog Design award also serves as a reflection of the firm’s exceptional teamwork and the strong relationships we build with everyone involved in the design and construction process, including pets!
SPECIAL THANKS
It has been a joy working with Leisa at Claws and Paws and Krista at DaisyCares alike! Our team is grateful for the opportunity we had to participate in such an engaging pet and community centered event. We would also like to extend a special thanks to David and his team at Bandy Constructors for their participation and contributions towards this project.
We looks forward to being a part of future Claws and Paws Construction competitions!