Spotlight on Dune Lakes Elementary; Highlights Vision for Future Design Excellence Awards

As Scenic Walton continues its mission to promote thoughtful, beautiful, and sustainable development throughout Walton County, the organization is shining a spotlight on one of last year’s Design Excellence Award recipients: Dune Lakes Elementary School, designed by the Walton County School District.

The award, presented in April 2024, recognized a public project that exemplifies Scenic Walton’s design ideals—architecture and landscaping that reflect community character while preserving and enhancing the natural beauty of the area.

“Dune Lakes Elementary set the tone for what’s possible when design is intentional and aligned with our environment,” said Leigh Moore, Executive Director of Scenic Walton. “We’re using past recipients like this one to inspire future nominations as we continue recognizing design excellence in both the public and private sectors.”

The Design Excellence Award, launched in 2017 and revitalized in 2024 following a pandemic-related pause, honors businesses, developers, and public institutions that create projects with exceptional design, scenic value, and environmental sensitivity. Scenic Walton’s board is currently reviewing upcoming award cycles and encourages the community to get involved by nominating projects that reflect these values.

As part of its commitment to education and community engagement, Scenic Walton has launched a new YouTube channel, where viewers can watch exclusive interviews with award recipients. The first episode features Walton County Schools Superintendent Russell Hughes, Facilities Director Jill Smith, and Scenic Walton Executive Director Leigh Moore, interviewed by Melissa Ward, President of the Emerald Coast Section of the American Planning Association Florida. The conversation offers insights into the design process behind Dune Lakes Elementary and the significance of the award to both the school district and the broader community.

Notably, the school district is not required to follow the Land Development Code when constructing schools—but chose to do so anyway, setting a precedent for excellence and community consideration.

Watch the full interview and subscribe at YouTube.com/@ScenicWalton for future episodes featuring stories of design, community impact, and scenic preservation across Walton County.

“This award isn’t just about aesthetics,” added Moore. “It’s about quality of life, sustainability, and how thoughtful development improves our communities for generations to come.”

Call for Nominations: Help Us Recognize Excellence in Design

Do you know a building or development in Walton County that truly stands out—one that respects the environment, enhances scenic beauty, and reflects the character of our community?

Scenic Walton is now accepting nominations for upcoming Design Excellence Award cycles, recognizing outstanding architectural and landscape design throughout Walton County.

Recent Award Recipients:

• Dune Lakes Elementary School – Thoughtful, community-minded design
• Eglin Federal Credit Union (Freeport Branch) – A modern aesthetic rooted in local charm
• CCB Bank Restoration (DeFuniak Springs) – Historic preservation that revitalizes downtown
• Sunbright Inn (DeFuniak Springs) – A graceful blend of historic preservation and modern comfort

What We Look For:

• Architecture that fits the landscape and surrounding community
• Landscaping that enhances natural beauty
• Signage, lighting, and aesthetics that contribute to scenic character
• Environmentally sensitive design
• Projects that improve quality of life for residents and visitors

How to Nominate:
Email your nomination to:
Leigh Moore
leigh@scenicwalton.org