Orchids and Onions
Celebrate the 2026 Orchids and Onions Awards
Join us on saturday, november 14, 2026 for a brunch reception at the cub tavern, downtown boise!
Since 1977, Preservation Idaho has hosted the Orchids and Onions Awards to recognize the people, organizations, and projects shaping Idaho’s historic landscape. Orchids celebrate outstanding contributions to historic preservation, while Onions draw attention to projects that demonstrate insensitivity to Idaho’s cultural heritage.
Each year, an independent review committee evaluates public nominations and selects the awardees. We are delighted to announce this year’s Orchids and Onions Award recipients!
These remarkable individuals, organizations, and projects reflect Preservation Idaho’s mission to preserve Idaho’s historic places through collaboration, education, and advocacy. Join us in recognizing their impact and celebrating the people and places that help make Idaho a better place to live, work, visit, and enjoy.
Celebrate the 2026 Orchids and Onions Awards
Join us for a brunch reception celebrating Idaho’s rich heritage, honoring the people who protect it, and inspiring the future of historic preservation! The Orchids and Onions awards reception will be in downtown Boise at the newly renovated The Cub Tavern in the Smith Block Building on Main St.
When: Saturday, November 14, 2026 | 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Where: The Cub Tavern, downtown Boise, 1015 W Main Street, between S 10th and S 11th Streets.
Tickets
Preservation Idaho Members: $20 per person
Non-Members: $25 per person
Note: Online processing fees and tax apply.
Tickets must be purchased in advance. Kids are welcome until 12:00 PM.
For tickets by phone contact us at (208) 424-5111 or at info@preservationidaho.org for more details.
Prefer to pay by check? Mail to: Preservation Idaho, PO Box 1495, Boise, ID 83701 (include “O and O Tickets” in the memo).
Awards Reception Details
Celebrating the positive contributions to historic preservation and highlighting projects that may have not fully honored Idaho's cultural heritage. Orchids and Onions began in 1977 and continues to be a pivotal event for awareness and celebration of historic preservation in Idaho.
Event Schedule on Saturday, November 14, 2026:
9:30 AM: Doors open
10:00 AM: Awards presentation led by volunteer and emcee, Dan Everhart
Following the Presentation: Brunch provided and optional self-guided tour
12:00 PM: Event concludes
Where: The Cub Tavern, downtown Boise, 1015 W Main Street, between S 10th and S 11th Streets.
Parking: Visit ParkBOI for parking garage locations. Paid metered parking is also available along Main Street and on surrounding streets. You can also use the ParkMobile app to find parking.
Advance ticket purchase is required. Get your tickets today!
MEMBER BENEFIT
If you are a member and would like to take advantage of the $5 member discount, click LOG IN FOR MEMBER BENEFITS to access your online membership account to purchase tickets.
submit a nomination for the 50th Annual orchids and onions awards in 2027
Announcing The 49th Annual Orchids and Onions Awardees
Since 1977, Preservation Idaho has hosted the Orchids and Onions Awards. Awardees are selected each year by an independent review committee from a pool of public nominations. We are proud to present this year's recipients - individuals, organizations, and projects that reflect our mission to preserve Idaho’s historic places through collaboration, education, and advocacy.
510 S. 1st Avenue - Sandpoint
Excellence in Historic Preservation
Preservation Idaho is delighted to honor the rehabilitation of 510 S. 1st Avenue in Sandpoint with a 2026 Orchid Award for Excellence in Historic Preservation, recognizing the owners’ thoughtful restoration of this beautiful Craftsman-style home and their commitment to preserving its architectural character, historic integrity, and important place in the community’s heritage.
Built in 1910, this home in the South Sandpoint neighborhood has been thoughtfully restored to honor its architectural character and local history. The property was acquired by the current owners in 2021 and underwent a comprehensive restoration between 2022 and 2024, led by co-owner Brett Dampier. The owners (Brett Dampier and Hendrik Pohl) rehabilitated the home, restoring original ceiling heights and flooring, replacing inappropriate windows with historically compatible replicas, and preserving original built-ins and stonework. The restoration respects the home’s early Craftsman design while sensitively incorporating modern updates. With its rich connections to Sandpoint’s early development and its setting beside a century-old heritage Butternut tree, 510 S. 1st Avenue exemplifies how careful rehabilitation can preserve both a historic building and its place in the community’s story. This residence is a shining example of Excellence in Historic Preservation.
Project Acknowledgements:
Property Owners: Brett Dampier & Hendrik Pohl
Project Planning & Design: Brett Dampier of Brett Dampier Design
Project Contributors:
Shoreline Construction – General Contractor
West Branch Carpentry – Custom Millwork
All Original Hardwood – Hardwood Floor Restoration
Photo: Brett Dampier and Sandpoint Arts, Culture, and Historic Preservation Commission
The Cabin / erstad - Boise
Excellence in Historic Preservation
Preservation Idaho is proud to honor the renovation of The Cabin with a 2026 Orchid Award for Excellence in Historic Preservation, recognizing the thoughtful rehabilitation of this beloved Boise location and its successful adaptation to support a growing literary arts and educational mission while preserving its distinctive historic character for future generations.
Originally constructed in 1940 as the Idaho State Forester’s Building, The Cabin is a distinctive log structure and cherished Boise icon that has served as a center for literary arts and education since 1996 as Idaho's only nonprofit dedicated entirely to literary arts and education. The basement and 2nd story were renovated starting in 2022 to add accessibility improvements, reimagining previously underutilized spaces. Led by erstad Architects, the recent renovation thoughtfully adapted the historic building to support The Cabin’s growing educational mission while preserving its original craftsmanship and character. Previously underutilized lower and upper levels were transformed into flexible classrooms, staff offices, and support spaces, while a new outdoor classroom expands opportunities for community learning.
By prioritizing restoration over replacement and sensitively integrating modern needs, the project demonstrates excellence in historic preservation, ensuring this beloved community resource continues to inspire readers, writers, and learners for generations to come.
Project Acknowledgements:
deBelloy Construction
Breckon Land Design
Vector Engineering
Tikker Engineering
E2Co.
Byron Folwell, Architect
Photo: erstad Architects
Ling and Louie's Asian Bar & Grill - Garden City
Contribution to Historic Preservation
Preservation Idaho is proud to recognize the rehabilitation of Ling and Louie's, the former Chart House restaurant, in Garden City with a 2026 Orchid Award for Contribution to Historic Preservation, celebrating the thoughtful restoration of this distinctive riverside architectural gem and its successful transformation into a vibrant gathering place that honors its original architectural vision while embracing a new chapter in its history.
Originally constructed in 1977, this building is a distinctive riverside restaurant inspired by the architectural style of Frank Lloyd Wright’s later work. Through a comprehensive rehabilitation led by Cushing Terrell, the building’s original architectural character has been thoughtfully revived while adapting it for a new generation of restaurant patrons. Incompatible alterations were removed, the iconic angled ribbon windows were recreated, the vaulted roof structure was repaired, and exposed structural elements were restored to view. Modern building systems and site improvements enhance functionality, accessibility, and connections to the Boise River Greenbelt.
This project demonstrates how creative design, careful rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse can breathe new life into an aging building while preserving its architectural identity and continued contribution to the community.
Project Acknowledgements:
Rex Chandler
David Johnson w/ Johnson Hospitality
EKC Construction
The Land Group
Cushing Terrell
Photo: Bryan Hallowell, Cushing Terrell
The Smith Block Building – Boise
Contribution to Historic Preservation
Preservation Idaho is proud to recognize The Smith Block Building with a 2026 Orchid Award for its outstanding Contribution to Historic Preservation and its remarkable role in revitalizing downtown Boise’s architectural heritage.
Originally constructed in 1905 for Roscoe W. Smith, one of Idaho’s earliest licensed pharmacists, the historic building at 1015 W. Main Street has been a fixture of downtown Boise for more than a century and was the last remaining unrenovated historic property in downtown Boise. Historically home to ground-floor retail and upper-floor commercial spaces, the building’s second floor had been vacant and closed to the public for nearly 60 years.
Owner Jade Stacey, alongside his father, Lee Stacey, has undertaken an extraordinary rehabilitation, thoughtfully rehabilitating the historic façade and first and second floors while preserving significant original interior features. The project also brings three iconic pieces of Boise’s advertising history together with the installation of the neon Cub Tavern sign, the Hotel Boise sign, and the reimagined Liquor sign.
Through a remarkable commitment to historic preservation and adaptive reuse, The Smith Block Building has been brought back to life as a vibrant part of downtown Boise. This project demonstrates how thoughtful investment in historic places can honor the past, bring new life to a remarkable piece of Boise's history, strengthen our community, and ensure that Boise’s architectural heritage continues to shape its future.
Project Acknowledgements:
Many contributors to the project, a couple specifically should be recognized. My father, Lee Stacey, spent hundreds if not thousands of hours helping me deconstruct and reconstruct the building. Time well spent together.
With respect to the 1st floor, The Cub, Todd Asin (co-owner of The Cub), Vangie Osborn (owner of The Cub and Boise signs) and Bryan Hallowell (architect for The Cub).
Photo: Jade Stacey, The Cub Tavern and The Smith Block Building
Idaho Fire Lookouts – Idaho
Cultural Heritage Preservation
Preservation Idaho is delighted to recognize Cat House and Billy Cooter with a 2026 Orchid Award for Cultural Heritage Preservation, honoring their extraordinary dedication to documenting, celebrating, and preserving Idaho’s historic fire lookouts and the stories that bring this important part of our state’s history to life.
Cat House and Billy Cooter, founders of Idaho Fire Lookouts, have transformed their passion for photography, hiking, and history into an extraordinary statewide preservation initiative. Through extensive research, photography, oral histories, and community collaboration, they are documenting Idaho’s nearly 1,000 fire lookout sites and the legacy of the men and women who staffed them. Their comprehensive website brings together historical records, personal stories, photographs, interactive maps, and opportunities for public engagement, raising awareness of these often-overlooked cultural resources.
Through hands-on documentation, educational presentations, and partnerships, Cat and Billy are building a lasting resource that celebrates Idaho’s forest history and helps ensure the stories of its fire lookouts are preserved for future generations.
Photo: Cat House and Billy Cooter, Idaho Fire Lookouts
Vangie Osborn, Signs of Our Times – Boise
Friend of Preservation
Preservation Idaho is honored to recognize Vangie Osborn, founder of Signs of Our Times, with a 2026 Orchid Award for Friend of Preservation, celebrating her decades of dedication to saving Boise’s historic signs and her extraordinary efforts to preserve the stories, artistry, and cultural heritage reflected in our community’s iconic historic signs and art installations.
Vangie has dedicated decades to rescuing and preserving Boise’s historic signage, including the iconic advertisements for the Hotel Boise and original Cub Bar displayed in the new Cub Tavern. Removed from their original locations and safeguarded by Osborn, these beloved historic treasures were restored and reinstalled in 2026. But these two iconic examples represent only a small fraction of Osborn’s vintage sign collection. Recognized by Preservation Idaho in 2025 for Neon Grove, her vision and persistence has ensured the rescue and reuse of significant pieces of Boise’s commercial and cultural heritage. With her help these objects of functional art have been given a second life, preserving the city’s visual history and continuing to illuminate downtown for future generations.
Vangie’s efforts recognize these signs not only as reminders of the businesses they represent, but also as works of art and craftsmanship that reflect the people, culture, and community that shaped Boise. Through vision, persistence, and collaboration, Osborn has ensured that this distinctive piece of Boise’s commercial and cultural heritage continues to illuminate the city’s identity, connecting generations to the businesses, places, and memories that shaped their community.
Project Acknowledgements:
Signs of Our Times, Will Spearman, Michael Baltzell and Dwaine Carver
Classic Design, Noel Weber Sr
Rocket Neon, the late Wil Kirkman
Yanke Machine Shop, Jim and Randy Schwager
Idaho State Historical Society
The Cub Tavern, Jade Stacey and Todd Asin
Basque Museum and Cultural Center, Patty Miller
Photo: Jade Stacey, The Cub Tavern and The Smith Block Building
The Egyptian Theatre & The Hardy Foundation - Boise
Heritage Stewardship
As the Egyptian Theatre approaches its 100th anniversary, Preservation Idaho is proud to recognize The Hardy Foundation, Inc., (and Earl M. Hardy, posthumously), with a 2026 Orchid Award for Heritage Stewardship. This award honors five decades of extraordinary dedication to preserving, restoring, and maintaining one of Boise’s most treasured historic landmarks.
Opening its doors on April 19, 1927, the Egyptian Theatre has anchored the intersection of Capitol Boulevard and Main Street for nearly a century and has served generations of Idahoans as a center for entertainment, culture, and community gathering.
In 1977, Earl Hardy purchased the theatre, saving it from demolition and recognizing the importance of protecting this architecturally and culturally significant resource. He subsequently established The Hardy Foundation, Inc., in 1997 to ensure its continued preservation. Following Earl Hardy’s passing in 1999, his daughter, Kay Hardy, and her husband, architect Gregory A. Kaslo, carried forward his vision and commitment to the theatre’s restoration and long-term stewardship.
Beginning in 1999, an extensive restoration carefully uncovered and returned the theatre’s original 1927 decorative character. Subsequent improvements and ongoing maintenance have continued to protect the building while ensuring it remains a vibrant and functional community venue.
Today, the Egyptian Theatre stands as a remarkable example of what long-term commitment, thoughtful stewardship, and family dedication can accomplish. Through two generations of the Hardy family, the theatre has been preserved not only as an architectural treasure but also as a living part of Boise’s cultural identity.
Project Acknowledgements:
Earl Melville Hardy
Anita Kay Hardy & Gregory A Kaslo
Photo: Kay Hardy and Gregory Kaslo
Review and Selection Process
Nominations are reviewed and evaluated by an independent review committee comprised of preservationists, historians, and architects. This committee assesses each nomination's suitability for the specified award category. A huge thank you to the jury review committee.
about the award categories
orchids
Building Projects and Programs
❖ Excellence in Historic Preservation
Awarded to projects that have demonstrated outstanding adherence to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards in preservation, restoration, renovation, or adaptive reuse (residential or commercial).
❖ Contribution to Historic Preservation
Awarded to projects that have been successful in the tasteful restoration, addition, or remodel of an existing building (residential or commercial).
❖ Preservation-Sensitive New Construction
Awarded to new construction that enhances a historic neighborhood or historical theme (residential or commercial).
❖ Cultural Heritage Preservation
Awarded to educational programs and projects that have made a positive impact toward the preservation of cultural heritage and open spaces, as well as the restoration and rehabilitation of historic landmarks and roadside architecture.
individuals and organizations
❖ Friend of Preservation
Awarded to non-professional individuals distinguished for service in historic preservation. This would include, but would not be limited to, those who volunteer for preservation organizations, historical societies or museums.
❖ Distinguished Preservationist
Awarded to professionals distinguished for service in historic preservation. Nominees for this award would be those whose job it is to further the cause of Historic Preservation in Idaho through direct projects or education.
❖ Heritage Stewardship
Awarded to organizations or individuals that have shown dedication to historic preservation through the long-term maintenance and care of historic, architecturally significant, or culturally important sites and structures.
❖ Scott Chandler Award for Excellence in Craftsmanship
Awarded to individuals worthy of acknowledgment for their body of work and contributions to their craft. This award is in memoriam to Scott Chandler, who embodied attention to detail and a commitment to quality and integrity in historic preservation.
Thanks to our Partners
A huge thank you to The Cub Tavern at the Smith Block Building (Jade Stacey and Todd Asin) for sponsoring the venue for this special reception. Constructed in 1905 for Roscoe W. Smith, one of Idaho’s earliest licensed pharmacists, the steel, brick, and stone structure replaced a series of much older wooden buildings built by his father, Dr. Ephraim Smith, Boise’s first mayor and Idaho’s first territorial treasurer. For more than a century, the building has anchored this historic block, originally housing ground-floor retail and upper-floor commercial space. In recent decades, however, the second floor sat vacant and closed to the public for nearly 60 years. The venue space upstairs is currently available for lease. Photo courtesy: The Cub Tavern.
With special thanks to Roots Family History. “Roots Family History is saving our legacy. Our history is kept on a combination of fragile video tapes, film reels, photographs, negatives, scrapbooks, journals, and art. We aim to archive and preserve as much of it as possible. Welcome to the Family History revolution.”
Flying M Coffeehouse is a beloved Boise destination, known for its quality coffee, quirky gifts, mismatched furniture, and friendly environment.
AND A HUGE THANK YOU TO GORDANA PAPIC FROM DAHLIA CATERING FOR THE WONDERFUL FOOD!
Coming to Boise for the awards reception?
book your stay at The Avery Hotel – A Boutique Gem in the Heart of Boise and receive a discounted rate
Built in 1910 and beautifully reimagined, The Avery is a premium boutique hotel that blends historic charm with modern comfort. Nestled in downtown Boise, this intimate 39-room property features individually curated spaces filled with thoughtful details and hidden touches.
Guests can savor exceptional cuisine at the on-site French brasserie and late-night gastro pub, led by a Boise-local Michelin-starred chef.
Honored with a 2024 Orchid Award for Excellence in Historic Preservation, The Avery is a shining example of what’s possible when preservationists, architects, and developers work together to celebrate and restore architectural heritage.
Orchids and Onions Awards Archives
The Orchids and Onions Awards celebrate the best and worst in architecture and development across Idaho. Each year, community members can submit nominations, highlighting the projects and individuals they feel represent excellence or disappointment in design. This unique program acknowledges exceptional projects and individuals that enhance the community's character and criticizes those that fail to meet historic standards.