Holy Virgin Mary Cathedral in Los Angeles Receives 2026 AIA Honor Award

Holy Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles has received the 2026 Honor Award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA), San Fernando Valley, in recognition of Excellence in Design and Execution of Architecture. This distinguished award represents professional recognition of the architectural design and execution of the Cathedral by the architectural community.

The Cathedral’s project architect is Vladimir Elmanovich, AIA, of VEA Architects. The award certificate identifies Holy Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Cathedral, as the client.

It is an honor that the architectural character of an Orthodox Christian cathedral has received this recognition from a respected professional secular organization. Orthodox temples are not simply places of assembly; they are sacred spaces in which the beauty of Orthodox theology, liturgical tradition, sacred art, and architecture come together in the worship of God.

For the parish community, this recognition is a source of great encouragement. The hope is that it will also bring greater attention to the presence, history, and mission of the Orthodox Church in Los Angeles and throughout our country.

Sincere congratulations…