The annual contest asks communities in the Fox Cities region of northeastern Wisconsin to nominate buildings in four categories, measuring the design, placement and impact of the structures that they drive by every day.

Somerville won for Fox Valley Lutheran High School in Appleton, Wis.

In a mix of buildings nominated for this year’s Best Existing Building award, the private high school beat out a corporate facility, church, veterinary center and a multipurpose building. The school features exceptional learning amenities, a 900-seat auditorium, two gymnasiums and unique curricular wings surrounding the central media center.

“Although the facility was constructed before the sustainable ‘green’ era caught on, the building was ahead of its time relative to its utilization of recyclable materials, cool daylighting and super efficient energy systems and control features,” says Michael Kadow, project architect and president of Somerville, Inc.

One of its more recognizable attributes is the 60-foot bell tower with intricate masonry and double rowlock brick in the top’s cross.

Judging considerations included site factors, such as location of exterior service functions and treatment of property edges; the building’s design, including identifiable and inviting entrances , innovation, suitability for future growth or varying uses; and the buildings impact on the community, environment and occupants.