Advancing Equity in Historic Preservation: OUR COMMITMENT
RETHOS PRESERVATION AWARDS
Every year, at Rethos' Annual Gala, we honor the people, projects, and venues that are shaping preservation in the states where Rethos works.
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Preservation Awards.
The nomination form below will close on June 13th, 2025. Nominations will be reviewed by the Rethos Board Programs Committee. Awardees will be notified in mid-July. We invite you to celebrate with us at Rethos' The Wrecking Ball Gala on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025.
All nominated projects must have been completed on or after January 1, 2020,
to be eligible for a historic preservation award.
2025 The Wrecking Ball Preservation Awards Gala Categories
Preservation Champion Award
Volunteers are the heartbeat of Rethos, making our work in historic preservation and building reuse possible. Whether they’re welcoming guests at Doors Open Minneapolis, conducting vital research, or assisting behind the scenes, their dedication fuels our mission. This award honors a volunteer who has gone above and beyond in sharing their time, energy, and enthusiasm to support Rethos and our community.
Advocacy & Impact Award
Advocacy is essential to preserving historic structures and strengthening communities. This award recognizes an individual who has been a powerful voice for preservation—championing public policy, fostering community engagement, driving economic revitalization, and advancing sustainability. Their passion and leadership have made a lasting impact on historic preservation and building reuse.
Excellence in Historic Rehabilitation
The Minnesota State Historic Tax Credit (HTC) has transformed communities by helping property owners and developers breathe new life into historic buildings. This award celebrates a standout project that has leveraged HTC funding to create an inspiring space—preserving history while fostering innovation and community connection.
Emerging Voices in Preservation
The future of preservation depends on fresh perspectives and bold ideas. This award honors a project led by individuals or teams who are newer to historic rehabilitation—bringing creativity, passion, and a fresh vision to saving old buildings. These projects exemplify the growing diversity and accessibility of the preservation movement.
Doors Open Accessibility & Engagement Award
Creating welcoming and inclusive spaces is at the heart of Doors Open Minneapolis and Doors Open Duluth. This award recognizes an individual, organization, or venue that demonstrated exceptional commitment to accessibility, engagement, and community involvement. Their efforts have made it possible for all visitors to explore and connect with the rich heritage of our city.
The Resilient Revival Award
Great projects don’t have to be big to make a difference in their communities. This award recognizes a renovation or rehabilitation project with a total construction budget under $3 million that has brought new life to an existing building. Whether through preservation, modernization, or creative reuse, these projects make spaces more functional, accessible, and valuable to their communities.
